The Psychedelic Therapy Podcast

Eamon Armstrong
  • 4.7 (60)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

A conversation series with leaders in the psychedelic community. Designed in service of therapists, healers, retreat leaders, and passionate enthusiasts.

  1. 9H AGO

    Ismail Lourido Ali (MAPS): The Work No Executive Order Can Do

    "We can pass 10 executive orders. We can put $500 million for drug development. And if we don't have people who are willing to hold that space... we're not going to get anywhere." - Ismail Lourido Ali, MAP Co-CEOOn April 18th, just days before 420, Bicycle Day and MAPS’ own 40th anniversary, Donald Trump signed an executive order on psychedelics. But what does it mean? Especially for psychedelic practitioners themselves. Today on the Psychedelic Therapy Podcast I sit down with MAPS Co-Executive Director Ismail Lourido Ali to learn what it actually means for the people doing the work. Together we unpack the executive order from the ground up: what it legally can and can't do, why ibogaine has suddenly kicked down the door while MDMA and psilocybin wait in line, and the strange political alchemy that made this happen. We cover the key distinctions between decriminalization, medicalization, and legalization; MAPS' evolving role as a multicultural bridge-builder at this pivot point; the sovereignty of Gabon and the very real risks of biopiracy in ibogaine's commercialization; and the danger of silver-bullet thinking. The conversation ends with the practitioners themselves, and the irreplaceable human work of preparation, presence, and integration that no executive order can replicate. Ismail Lourido Ali, JD is the Co-Executive Director of MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) alongside co-director Betty Aldworth. A philosopher by training and a lawyer by vocation, he previously served as MAPS Director of Policy, worked in criminal justice reform at the ACLU of Northern California, and co-founded the Psychedelic Bar Association. He has been active in psychedelic drug policy reform for over a decade. Timestamps:  (01:00) Ismail's first six months as MAPS Co-CEO (07:00) Decrim, medicalization, legalization (12:00) What Trump's executive order actually does (and doesn't do) (19:00) Why ibogaine? Origins, the opioid crisis, and the perfect storm (30:00) The political alchemy behind the signing (34:00) Where MAPS fits in this pivotal moment (46:00) The Nagoya Protocol, Gabon's sovereignty, and the risk of biopiracy (56:00) Silver bullets vs. real healing Links: Ismail L. Ali, J.D., Co-Executive Director — MAPSIsmail Lourido Ali (@sage_izzy)MAPS Board Names Aldworth and Ali as Co-Executive DirectorsA Practitioner Statement on the Responsible Development of Ibogaine in the United States – Open Letter

    1h 10m

  2. 04/25/2025

    Robin Arnott & Sandeep Prakash: Training for Psychedelic Surrender

    Can we practice the art of surrender before the first dose? Today on the show Robin Arnott and Dr. Sandeep Prakash explain how SoundSelf evolved from a VR curiosity into a clinically oriented tool that uses sound and light feedback to induce the unitary states therapists aim for in medicine sessions. We unpack the science of voice-activated biofeedback, ways to weave SoundSelf into preparation and integration protocols, and the larger promise of digital therapeutics for scalable, whole-person care. SoundSelf is a voice-guided, audio-visual platform that primes the nervous system for psychedelic-level surrender and supports post-session integration. Robin Arnott is the former CEO of Andromeda Entertainment, and author of The Technodelic Manifesto. Dr. Sandeep Prakash is a leading Psychedelic Researcher trained at California Institute of Integral Studies. Together they aim to set a new gold standard for tech-enabled mental health. Soundself is launching a new expansion: a tablet pre-configured with SoundSelf. Psychedelic Therapy Podcast listeners who order before May 9 2025 get this $600 upgrade free, plus a two-month evaluation window. Explore it for yourself at: www.soundself.com/ptp Timestamps: (03:46) The Origin and Evolution of SoundSelf(08:15) Exploring the Science and Application of SoundSelf(21:42) Voice Activated Biofeedback and Its Impact(30:47) The Role of SoundSelf in Psychedelic Therapy(35:43) Combining SoundSelf with Psychedelics(38:47) Future of Digital Therapeutics

    56 min

  3. 02/13/2025

    Joshua White: Who You Gonna Call? Fireside

    Imagine you’re in the middle of a psychedelic journey—things are getting intense, and you just need someone to talk to. That’s whereFireside Project comes in. As the world’s first psychedelic peer support line, Fireside is redefining how we care for each other in altered states, offering a space where anyone can find guidance, validation, and a steady voice in uncertain moments. But beyond the helpline, Fireside is also an incredible entry point for those looking to work in the field of psychedelic support. If you’re a practitioner, facilitator, or simply curious about holding space for others, this conversation is for you. In this episode, Fireside Executive Director Joshua White breaks down the essential skills for psychedelic peer support, from understanding the differences between coaching, therapy, and crisis intervention to mastering theart of presence. We explore whyvalidation is often more powerful than de-escalation, the growing importance ofintegration coaching, and the pitfalls ofself-abandonment in the psychedelic industry. Plus, we dig into what it really means toheal the wounded healer—the emotional labor of this work and how to care for yourself while caring for others. Joshua White is the Founder and Executive Director of Fireside Project, a nonprofit dedicated to making psychedelic support accessible and culturally attuned at scale. Through itsPsychedelic Support Line, Fireside provides real-time help for those navigating challenging experiences, while itsFireside-Certified Psychedelic Coaching Program offers deeper, long-term integration support. Before founding Fireside, Joshua was a Deputy City Attorney for San Francisco, where he fought against businesses exploiting vulnerable communities and co-taught a nationally recognized Yale Law School clinic. Now, he’s bringing his passion for advocacy, harm reduction, and healing to the psychedelic space—reshaping how we support one another on these journeys. Timetamps (04:38) Joshua White's Personal Journey(09:00) The Art of Presence(11:48) Distinguishing Peer Support, Coaching, and Psychotherapy(21:07) Fireside Project's Approach to Support(35:46) The Future of Psychedelic Support and AI(41:41) The Need for Long-Term Support in Psychedelic Therapy(47:07) Challenges in the Psychedelic  Industry(52:37) Balancing Personal Well-being and Professional Commitment(59:12) The Importance of Peer Support(01:08:16) Joshua White's Transition Announcement Links Fireside Project: Psychedelic Coaching & Peer Support LineFireside Project (@firesideproject)Curious about becoming Fireside’s new ED?

    1h 15m

  4. 01/27/2025

    Tom Feegel: Ibogaine for Cognitive Enhancement

    A month ago, I had the privilege of visiting Beond in Cancun, Mexico to experience an ibogaine treatment for cognitive enhancement. Today, I’m joined by Beond CEO Tom Feegel to discuss how this remarkable medicine can support a better brain. In this episode, we explore Tom’s personal journey with Ibogaine, its potential to revolutionize addiction treatment, and how it supports cognitive enhancement. We discuss key safety concerns, the importance of integrity in healing, and Tom’s reflections on this transformative medicine. Finally, we look ahead to the future of psychedelic access and its impact on mental health worldwide. Tom Feegel is co-founder of Beond Ibogaine, an ibogaine-assisted treatment and research center in Mexico for trauma, PTSD, addiction, and health optimization. He was previously CEO of EO Products, and a founding executive at Brandless. A father of five, Tom lives in Mexico and continues to push boundaries in mental health and addiction recovery. Timestamps 06:25 Tom’s Personal Journey with Ibogaine 10:25 Ibogaine's Impact on Cognitive Enhancement 17:42 Safety Concerns and Proper Use of Ibogaine 27:53 Clinical Environment vs. Shamanic Experience 36:20 Cognitive Enhancement with Ibogaine: Latest Research 40:38 Who Should Consider Ibogaine Therapy? 50:25 The Importance of Integrated Healing 56:41 Access and Inequality in Psychedelic Therapy Links

    1h 7m

  5. 11/20/2024

    Juan Pablo Capello: A Wakeup Call for Ketamine Telehealth Companies

    Today, I’m joined by Juan Pablo Capello, co-founder and former CEO of New Life Health, a telehealth ketamine therapy service launched in 2021. Juan Pablo has raised concerns about low standards of care in telehealth ketamine, making this a timely conversation about the opportunities and challenges in this growing industry. In our discussion, Juan Pablo shares how his early experiences with Wachuma inspired his interest in psychedelics for mental health. We address key topics, including the potential for ketamine addiction, the impact of Matthew Perry’s death on the psychedelic community, and the surprising role of insurance companies in shaping telehealth standards. We also explore the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, Juan Pablo’s work with the Eagle Condor Church, and how integration is best approached as a community effort. Juan Pablo is a seasoned entrepreneur who co-founded a leading Latin American crowdfunding platform and a creative campus in Miami’s Wynwood Arts District. As the former CEO of New Life Health, now part of Beckley Waves, he continues to engage in work that bridges innovation, care, and community in the psychedelic space. Timestamps (06:00) Juan Pablo’s background in Chile and his experience with Wachuma (11:30) Why ketamine is used in mental health treatment (21:00) Is ketamine addictive? (25:00) Matthew Perry’s death as a wake-up call for the ketamine community (36:00) The surprising regulatory influence of insurance companies (41:00) The Religious Freedom Restoration Act and the Eagle Condor Church (53:00) The lack of integration in traditional psychedelic therapy contexts (57:00) Integration as a community-driven process Links Juan Pablo Cappello - PAG Law PLLC Matthew Perry's Death Shows Ketamine Industry Needs a Wakeup Call Nue Life | At Home Ketamine Therapy

    1h 5m

  6. 10/28/2024

    Natalie Lyla Ginsberg (MAPS): The FDA, MDMA, and the Future of Psychedelic Therapy

    Today, we’re exploring a critical issue facing the field of psychedelic medicine: the recent FDA rejection of MAPS’ clinical trials to reschedule MDMA for therapeutic use. This setback affects many of us committed to healing and transforming society through psychedelics.  To help us understand the impact and the path forward, I’m joined by Natalie Lila Ginsberg, a leading voice in the psychedelic field and MAPS’ Global Impact Officer. In this episode, Natalie and I discuss the importance of psychedelic therapy and her personal passion for this work. We cover the history of MDMA’s criminalization, the complexities of the FDA’s decision, and the split between MAPS and its public benefit corporation, Lycos. Natalie sheds light on why the FDA remains cautious and how psychedelic therapy may or may not fit into the Western medical model. Finally, she offers guidance for aspiring psychedelic therapists on the most valuable trainings and credentials to pursue. Natalie has led MAPS’ Policy and Advocacy Department, co-developed their Health Equity Program, and now champions the ethical integration of psychedelics into mainstream culture. Before MAPS, she was instrumental in legalizing medical cannabis in New York, and she co-founded the Jewish Psychedelic Summit. TIMESTAMPS (10:20) — What is psychedelic therapy and why is it important (17:00) — Natalie’s WHY (24:00) — Why MDMA is illegal (31:30) — Why the advisory board recommended the FDA not to deschedule  (34:00) — Why there was a split between the nonprofit MAPS and public benefit corp Lycos (41:45) — Why is the FDA so cautious (48:00) — Can psychedelic therapy ever truly fit into the Western medical model? (56:00) — Natalie’s recommendations for trainings and credentials that are worth investing in for psychedelic therapists LINKS Debunking FDA Advisory Meeting with Lauren Taus Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies – MAPS Natalie Lyla Ginsberg, M.S.W. Global Impact Officer Natalie Lyla Ginsberg (@natalielyla)

    1h 4m

  7. 10/18/2024

    Tricia Eastman & Joseph Barsuglia: Ibogaine is Miracle Grow for the Brain

    Today we’re doing something a little different. I’m re-releasing an episode from my personal podcast, Life is a Festival, because it remains one of my favorite interviews ever. This conversation, originally recorded a few years ago, is with Tricia Eastman and Joseph Barsuglia, two pioneers in the world of psychedelic medicine. We dive deep into Iboga, the Bwiti people of Gabon, and the powerful pharmacology of this unique plant medicine. I wanted to share it with you as it remains highly relevant and educational. In this episode, we explore Iboga and its cultural and spiritual significance. We discuss the Bwiti people, their rituals and music, and how these elements interweave with Iboga's healing properties. Tricia and Joseph share their journeys as healers, their work with Iboga, and its connection to other psychedelics like 5-MeO-DMT. We also touch on the subject of microdosing Iboga and its suitability for this practice. Joseph and Tricia both worked at Crossroads ibogaine treatment center in Mexico. Joseph has co-led psychedelic retreats around the world since 2015 and serves as an advisor to numerous psychedelic medicine companies. Tricia Eastman is a renowned speaker and healer, with her book Seeding Consciousness: Plant Medicine, Ancestral Wisdom, and Psychedelic Initiation launching November 12, 2024. Together, they bring a wealth of wisdom to today’s discussion. Timestamps: (08:00) - Who are the Bwiti (17:00) - The Pharmacology of Iboga (29:00) - The meaning of Bwiti music and rituals (38:30) - Tricia and Joseph’s journeys to iboga  (46:30) - 5MeoDmt  (52:00) - Overcoming spiritual ego and supporting conservation (1:04:30) - Microdosing iboga  Links: Seeding Consciousness - Simon & Schuster Dr. Joseph Peter Barsuglia psychedelicjourneys - Tricia Eastman

    1h 9m

  8. 08/08/2024

    Jennifer Tippett: Understanding Private Practice vs Clinical Trials

    After the shocking decision of an advisory committee recommendation that the FDA reject MDMA as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder, I wanted to speak to someone who understands the difference between clinical trials and private practice. Dr. Jennifer Tippett is a licensed clinical psychologist and Director of Psychotherapeutic Development at atai Life Sciences, where she creates therapeutic protocols and provides facilitator training for psychedelic clinical trials. On the show, we start with Jennifer’s experience in forensic psychology. Then we discuss the difference between industry trials, academic trials, and private practice. We talk about making novel psychedelics, and if it is possible, or desired, to make a psychedelic that doesn’t have the trip. We also discussed equity and access, including both cultural and financial barriers to psychedelic healing. Jennifer has spent a lot of time considering how one might create a sustainable business model for psychedelic therapy, especially looking at what has been going on in Oregon. As an employee of atai Life Sciences, which is a publicly traded company, Jennifer responds to some criticisms of for-profit psychedelic companies. And finally, we end with her response to the recent FDA advisory finding against using MDMA for post-traumatic stress disorder. Jennifer previously directed the Substance Use Disorder Specialty Program at the University of Denver, focusing on addiction and the neurobiology of trauma. Her early career involved working with incarcerated individuals and those with severe mental illness, inspiring her to explore innovative mental health care, including psychedelic medicine. Dr. Tippett studied psychedelics through shamanistic traditions and obtained certifications from Fluence, Polaris, MAPS, and the Integrated Psychiatry Institute. She is also a Level 1 Internal Family Systems provider, dedicated to integrating psychedelics with evidence-based therapies. In her private practice she supports clients with psychedelic integration.  The views and opinions expressed by Jennifer in this episode are her own and do not necessarily represent those of atai Life Sciences.  Links Integration | Jennifer Tippett psychologist Jennifer Tippett, Ph.D. atai Life Sciences Timestamps (07:00) - Could psychedelic therapy help treat psychopathy?  (15:30) - The difference between industry trials, academic trials, and private practice (20:30) - Should we make new psychedelics? (25:00) - Equity and access, culturally and financially (30:30) - Creating sustainable business models for psychedelics therapists (35:30) - Could we have healing without the trip? (39:30) - Responding to criticism of for profit psychedelic companies (42:30) - Responding to FDA advisory board’s decision on MDMA

    47 min
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4.7
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A conversation series with leaders in the psychedelic community. Designed in service of therapists, healers, retreat leaders, and passionate enthusiasts.

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