THE MINDFULNESS EXPERIENCE

S03E65 - Steven Xenakis - Veterans & Treatment

🎙️ Brigadier General (Ret.) Stephen N. Xenakis, MD. As the new Executive Director of the American Psychedelic Practitioners Association (APPA), Dr. Xenakis brings decades of clinical experience and knowledge. Having advised some of the highest-ranking officials in the Department of Defense, Dr. Xenakis is an outspoken advocate for ethics and human rights in healthcare.
During the episode, Dr. Xenakis shares his thoughts on the emerging field of psychedelic medicine, the potential impact of a federal task force on substances like Ketamine, MDMA, and psilocybin, and the opportunities to treat and help our veterans in the United States with these and other entheogens and plant medicines. He explores how the government's Veterans Health Administration (VHA) can provide access to innovative psychiatric treatments through the VHA and insurance providers.Dr. Xenakis also discusses the issues with the current criminalization of psychedelic substances and how policymakers can ensure that these treatments are more widely accessible to veterans and other individuals. He encourages raising awareness about the potential benefits of these treatments and combatting any stigma that may surround them.Listeners can expect to learn more about the VHA's role in providing mental health care to veterans, the research supporting the use of psychedelic therapies, the challenges and benefits of administering psychedelic-assisted therapy to individuals within the VHA system, and APPA's role in influencing insurance coverage for psychedelic-assisted therapy.The episode offers an informative, persuasive, and positive outlook on improving our nation's veterans' access to innovative psychiatric treatments. Listeners can find more information about Dr. Xenakis's work at the APPA and how to get involved. https://www.appa-us.org/

S03E64 - Tom Ronen Goddard - Love and Authencity

🎙️ The Mindfulness Experience Podcast proudly presents a thought-provoking episode featuring Dr. Tom Ronen Goddard, JD, Ph.D. With decades of diverse experience in personal development, transformational coaching, and mindfulness, Dr. Goddard brings a wealth of knowledge, unique insights, and transformative experiences.Host Keith Fiveson delves deep into Dr. Goddard's journey of self-discovery and transformation. From focusing on his head to his body, slipping away from authenticity, and finding his unique spiritual path, Dr. Goddard shares his wisdom, insights, and practical tips on cultivating deeper awareness, mindfulness, and intention.The podcast features a rich discussion of Dr. Goddard's approach to integrating diverse fields of study, learning, and practice. His transformative journey towards self-care and self-love is particularly inspiring, as he shares how he committed to a plant-based lifestyle, daily exercise, and eliminating alcohol from his routine. This radical shift enabled him to lose weight and feel better while finding his love for life.Listeners will be treated to an informative, persuasive, and positive tone of voice as Dr. Goddard shares his journey and offers practical tips for cultivating mindfulness and intention in our personal and professional lives. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, Dr. Goddard's experience and insights serve as a valuable guide to creating deeper meaning, purpose, and fulfillment in every aspect of life.
 

S03E63 - Christopher Solomon - Salvia and Meditation

🎙️ On this episode of The Mindfulness Experience, we speak with Christopher Solomon, a somatic Salvia guide, teacher, and inventor of a pipe that aids in the mindful exploration of the Salvia Divinorum plant. With over a decade of experience in the field, Christopher has dedicated his life to working with Salvia as a medicine and empowering individuals to use it in a supportive, informative, and enlightening manner.As a holder of a BA in Psychology from the University of Texas at Dallas and trained in somatic psychotherapy from the Hakomi Institute of California, Christopher merges his vast knowledge and expertise to create a unique approach to working with Salvia. He also holds Holistic and integrative Nutrition certifications and has completed the Body-mind-centering training at the School for Body-Mind Centering with Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen.
During his interview, Christopher explained that Salvia Divinorum is a plant used for centuries among indigenous people in Central and South America for spiritual and medicinal purposes. Its active ingredient, salvinorin A, is the most potent psychoactive compound known to man. Salvia operates uniquely, unlike other plant medicines used for mindfulness practices, providing a transformative experience for people who use it.Christopher's Salvia pipe is designed to aid in mindful plant exploration. It is an essential tool that enhances people's experience by providing a way to take the smoke from Salvia in a measured way, supporting them to take in the plant's energy in a mindful and controlled manner. With this pipe, people can safely access the plant's creative energies and harness the transformative benefits of Salvia.Common misconceptions about Salvia include that it is dangerous and addictive. Christopher works with his clients to rebuff these misconceptions and educate them on the proper and informed use of Salvia, leading to beneficial outcomes that positively affect their mental and physical well-being.Christopher's innovative and unique approach to working with Salvia continues to change the game, creating tailored, transformative experiences for individuals seeking mindful exploration and healing. His dedication to empowering people with this medicine is something to admire and emulate.
 
Please welcome Chris Solomon to The Mindfulness Experience Podcast.

S02E62 - Larissa Maier - Science and Indigenious Wisdom

🎙️ In this episode of The Mindfulness Experience Podcast, we are honored to welcome Dr. Larissa Maier, a visionary psychologist leading the way in exploring the potential of entheogenic plants and fungi for healing and transformation. With an impressive academic background, including a BSc, MSc, and Ph.D. from the University of Zurich, Dr. Maier is an expert in consciousness, health, and human rights.Dr. Maier's work is rooted in profoundly recognizing the potential of psychedelic experiences to foster a more profound sense of interconnectedness and belonging. Her approach to mental health treatment differs from conventional approaches, focusing on decolonizing human consciousness and integrating traditional knowledge systems and mindfulness practices to cultivate compassionate community healing modalities.Her recent travels to South America and Africa to learn about indigenous culture and the traditional and ceremonial uses of entheogenic plants and fungi have provided her with invaluable insights. Through her research, Dr. Maier has gained a deep appreciation for the role of traditional knowledge systems and mindfulness in cultivating transformational tools for harm reduction.Dr. Maier believes that psychedelic experiences should be accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status. She advocates for the safe and ethical use of psychedelics, respecting the cultures and traditions from which they arise. She sees a bright future for psychedelic research, with the potential for these therapies to transform mental health treatment in promising new ways.Overall, Dr. Larissa Maier's groundbreaking research and visionary thinking are paving the way for a new era of mental health treatment. Her unique approach to integrating traditional knowledge systems and mindfulness practices with psychedelic therapies offers a holistic and compassionate path to healing and transformation. You can find her bio here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larissa-j-maier/?originalSubdomain=ch
 

S02E61 - Sergey Vardanyan - Global Wars, PTSD and Psychedelics

🎙️Welcome to another episode of The Mindfulness Experience Podcast. Today, we are honored to host an extraordinary guest, Mr. Sergey Vardanyan, the founder of EntheoBliss Healthcare Foundation. I had the privilege of meeting Sergey at The Psychedelic Science 2023 Convention in Denver, Colorado, where his passion for entheogenic research and its potential benefits deeply resonated.
EntheoBliss envisions a world where entheogens are safely and legally available for beneficial uses, governed by a rigorous scientific evaluation of their risks and benefits. They've established themselves as a beacon of hope, especially for those suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), affecting hundreds of millions worldwide.
The foundation's work is particularly significant in the wake of the 2020 Armenian-Azerbaijani war, which left an estimated 20,000-25,000 veterans and civilians struggling with PTSD. EntheoBliss aims to bring relief and recovery to these individuals and many more worldwide through cutting-edge entheogen-assisted healing modalities.
We look forward to hearing Sergey's enlightening responses and delving deeper into the transformative potential of entheogens. So sit back, relax, and join us on this exciting journey of discovery.

S02E60 - Rakesh Jain - Integrative Wellness and Psychedelics

🎙️Welcome to another episode of The Mindfulness Experience Podcast. Today, we are honored to have a distinguished guest with us, Dr. Rakesh Jain, who was a recent speaker at the Psychedelic Science 2023 MAPS Convention.
Dr. Jain is a highly respected figure in Psychiatry and Mental Health. He is a Clinical Professor at the Department of Psychiatry at Texas Tech University School of Medicine – Permian Basin. His academic journey began at the University of Calcutta in India, where he attended medical school. He further pursued his interest in public health at the University of Texas School of Public Health, earning his Masters's in Public Health.
A renowned researcher, Dr. Jain has been involved in over 100 research projects studying the effects of medications on short-term and long-term treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and psychosis. His findings have been instrumental in shaping our understanding of these mental health conditions and how they can be effectively managed through medication.
In addition to his academic and research pursuits, Dr. Jain also advocates mental health education. His dedication to his field is evident in his research and teaching roles and his efforts to improve public understanding of mental health.
We're thrilled to have Dr. Jain with us today to share his wealth of knowledge, insights, and his journey in the field of mental health. Stay tuned for what promises to be a truly enlightening conversation.  Make sure you check out his website here: http://www.rakeshjainmd.com/
#TheMindfulnessExperience #PsychedelicScience #Podcast #psychiatrist #RakeshJain #mentalhealth #substanceabuse

S02E59 - Stephen Xenakis - American Psychedelic Practitioners

🎙️ Exciting news, listeners! On the next episode of The Mindfulness Experience Podcast, an esteemed guest is joining us from the Psychedelic Science 2023 MAPS Convention. We're proud to introduce Brigadier General (Ret.) Stephen N. Xenakis, MD - the newly appointed American Psychedelic Practitioners Association (APPA) Executive Director.
With a distinguished career spanning five decades in the US healthcare system, Dr. Xenakis is a board-certified psychiatrist and a former Commanding General of the Southeast Regional Medical Command and Dwight David Eisenhower Army Medical Center. He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our discussion.
Dr. Xenakis is a staunch advocate for psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT), viewing it as a key solution to the ongoing mental health crisis. His commitment to a patient-focused care framework ensures that PAT is delivered equitably to all who need it.
Beyond his medical and military accolades, Dr. Xenakis is a prolific scholar. He lends his expertise to the Center for Ethics and Rule of Law board at the University of Pennsylvania and the Editorial Board of the Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law. Additionally, he serves on the Advisory Board of Physicians for Human Rights and the Center for Victims of Torture.
Join us for this enlightening conversation as we delve into the future of psychedelic therapy, mental health, and much more. Stay tuned! 🎧
#TheMindfulnessExperience #PsychedelicScience #Military #usarmy #Podcast #StephenXenakis #psychiatrist #appa #physician #humanrights

S02E58 - Jamie Beachy - Chaplaincy, Spirit and Psychedelics

🎙️We are thrilled to introduce our esteemed guest for today's episode, Dr. Jamie Beachy. A respected faculty lead for Naropa’s Master of Divinity program, Dr. Beachy brings an intriguing blend of spiritual care education, ethics consulting, and palliative care chaplaincy to our conversation.
With a rich history of working in diverse contexts - from academic medical centers and trauma hospitals to hospice and palliative care settings - her insights are uniquely informed and deeply profound.
She is not only a dedicated educator who developed the curriculum for an advanced certificate in palliative care chaplaincy but also an active advisor to various palliative care chaplaincy organizations, including the Institute for Palliative Care at California State University.
A passionate advocate for the role of chaplaincy in psychedelic therapies, Dr. Beachy currently serves as a therapist with the MAPS MDMA-assisted therapy Phase III study in Boulder. Her dedication to the field has led her to present and convene gatherings on psychedelics and chaplaincy, and she is currently the faculty co-director for Naropa’s center-for-psychedelic Studies.
Recently, we had the privilege of hearing her speak at the Psychedelic Science 2023 Convention, and her wisdom and perspective deeply moved us.
In today's episode, we will delve into her fascinating journey, her experiences with psychedelic therapies, and the transformative power of mindful chaplaincy in modern therapeutic practices.
Stay tuned for an enlightening conversation that bridges spirituality, mindfulness, and psychedelic science. You don't want to miss this!
#Mindfulness #PsychedelicScience #Spirituality #PodcastGuest #DrJamieBeachy

S02E57 - Dave Rabin - Psychedelics and Digital Therapeutics

🎙️Greetings and Welcome to another episode of The Mindfulness Experience Podcast. I'm your host, Keith Fiveson, and today I have the honor of introducing our esteemed guest, Dr. Dave Rabin, a leading expert in the field of trauma and stress-related disorders.
Dr. Dave Rabin, MD, PhD, is a neuroscientist, board-certified psychiatrist, health tech entrepreneur & inventor who has been investigating the effects of chronic stress in humans for over 15 years. He is the co-founder & Chief Medical Officer at Apollo Neuroscience, which has developed the first scientifically-validated wearable technology that actively enhances sleep, relaxation, focus, and calm, using a novel touch therapy that signals safety to the brain. Dr. Rabin is the Executive Director of The Board of Medicine & the Medical Director of the Apollo Clinic.
Dr. Rabin has a longstanding interest in consciousness and our inherent ability to heal ourselves from injury and illness. His research focuses on the clinical application of non-invasive therapies for patients with treatment-resistant illnesses like PTSD and substance use disorders.
In addition to his clinical psychiatry practice, Dr. Rabin is currently conducting research on the epigenetic regulation of trauma responses and recovery to elucidate the mechanism of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and the neurobiology of belief.
Dr. Rabin received his MD in medicine and PhD in neuroscience from Albany Medical College and specialized in psychiatry with a distinction in research at Western Psychiatric Institute & Clinic at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Ladies and Gentlemen, please join me in welcoming Dr. Dave Rabin! Stay tuned for this enlightening conversation!
#TheMindfulnessExperience #PsychedelicScience2023 #Neuroscience #Psychedelics #mindfulness #psychiatry #consciousness #podcast
 

S02E56 - Alex Kopacz - Athletic Performance and Psychedelics

🎙️ Welcome to another episode of The Mindfulness Experience Podcast. Today we have an exceptional guest joining us: Alexander Kopacz, a Canadian bobsledder and Olympic co-champion in the two-man bobsleigh event at the 2018 Winter Olympics.
But there's so much more to Alexander than his sporting achievements. He is currently the Chief Technology Officer for Step Sciences, a pioneering company that combines the science of sensorimotor stimuli and orthotics. This scientific approach to human mechanics has the potential to unlock our unique abilities and aid in the recovery and correction of imperfections in our steps.
Alexander and his team of experts have dedicated decades of their lives to reaching the highest levels of scientific understanding and application with a clear goal: improving people's quality of life. He has a keen interest in additive manufacturing, medical applications in engineering, and large-scale projects, all aligning with his enthusiasm for solving design problems through creative thinking.
We were fortunate enough to hear from Alexander at the recent Psychedelic Science 2023 MAPS Convention, where he shared his insights on the intersection of physical performance, technology, and mindfulness.
In this episode, we'll delve into Alexander's journey from Olympic gold medalist to tech innovator, explore his work at Step Sciences, and discuss how mindfulness plays a role in athletic performance and technological innovation.
Stay tuned for an enlightening conversation that bridges the worlds of sports, science, and mindfulness.
#Mindfulness #SportsScience #PodcastGuest #AlexanderKopacz