In this episode of the Psychedelics Design Podcast, host ⁠⁠Alexandra Plesner—founder of Psychedelics Design—sits down with ⁠Mattha Busby⁠, a journalist and author known for his deep reporting on drug and health policy, human rights, society, and the environment.

Currently based in Mexico, Mattha is a regular contributor to The Guardian and VICE, and his work has appeared in Rolling Stone, WIRED, TIME, and more. Together, they explore the power of storytelling in the psychedelic movement, the risks of silence around harm, and how culture shapes the psychedelic experience—both in the media and beyond.

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In the latest episode of the Psychedelics Design Podcast, host ⁠Alexandra Plesner⁠ welcomes ⁠Joe Moore⁠, co-founder and CEO of ⁠Psychedelics Today⁠. This engaging conversation delves into the transformative power of psychedelics, their intersection with design, and the importance of education in this evolving field.

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In this podcast episode of the Psychedelics Design Podcast, we had the honour to speak with Alexandra Pallas, co-founder and advisor of Beckley Retreats, discussing her unique journey from a small-town dreamer to a conscious business entrepreneur.

Pallas recounts her early experiences running in the woods and writing stories, which laid the foundation for her passion for narrative. This diverse background culminated in her role at Beckley Retreats, where she emphasizes the importance of preparation and integration in psychedelic experiences.

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In this episode, my guest is Larry Norris, PhD, co-founder and executive director of Entheogenic Research, Integration, and Education (ERIE) and co-founder and board member of Decriminalize Nature. Larry advocates for the unalienable right to develop one's own relationship with Nature and aims to support efforts to decriminalize entheogenic plants and fungi.

This podcast episode is an unscripted and authentic conversation where we explore the integration of psychedelic experiences into creative processes. Larry discusses creativity in the context of psychedelics as a multifaceted concept. Psychedelic experiences often unlock significant creative potential, offering new perspectives and insights that can fuel artistic and innovative endeavours.

He highlights the role of psychedelics in enhancing problem-solving abilities and helping individuals think outside traditional paradigms, leading to novel approaches to both personal and professional challenges. Psychedelic experiences can foster a greater receptivity to new concepts and ways of thinking, broadening one's creative horizons.

We talk about creativity and psychedelics as a way to transform not just individual thinking but also broader societal structures and environments. Creative expressions can influence others and spark change, potentially leading to innovative solutions for societal issues. Throughout the conversation, Larry draws on his extensive experience in the field of psychedelic research and integration, as well as his academic expertise in transpersonal psychology and ayahuasca experiences. And yes, we also share personal art practise and some experiences.

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In this episode, my guest is Stephanie Wang, Founder and CEO of KA! Empathogenics, plant-based empathogenic supplements featuring Kanna - a heart-opening succulent plant from South Africa that is clinically proven to reduce tension, lift mood and improve focus, helping people feel more alive, capable and connected as they navigate everyday stress.

The discussion revolves around the intersection of psychedelics, design, and human consciousness. Wang shares her journey from a successful finance career to exploring healing modalities and eventually founding her company, which focuses on creating plant-based products with a mission of enhancing human consciousness, by bringing more heart-centeredness to the world via greater awareness of our interconnection with each other and nature.

Stephanie also gives many insights into building a brand mindful and within social, environmental and cultural contexts. You will also learn how her brand communication and visualisation are based on solid grounds.

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In this episode, my guest is Marc Violo, the founder of MycoStories, a global fungi innovation and conservation network focused on exploring and promoting the applications of fungi for sustainable solutions across industries. MycoStories supports academic research and early-stage startups through business and investment strategy.

We talked with Marc about the transformative potential of fungi, exploring their applications in various fields that range from food, materials, agriculture and carbon storage to physical and mental health.

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In this episode, my guest is ⁠⁠⁠Tracy DeLuca, founder of How Might We Design, a healthcare innovation consultancy.

We talk about the meaning of design strategy and explore design beyond mere aesthetics. We discuss how processes, systems, relationships, and business models can embody psychedelic principles.

Additionally, we highlight the benefits of implementing thoughtful design from the early stages of a project, the importance of designing with nature in mind, and the concept of conscious design. We also examine how design teams operate within agencies, emphasizing the significance of industry knowledge while maintaining a disruptive mindset.

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In this episode, my guest is Lauren Van Der Veen founder of Zen Ren Design, a Los Angeles-based design firm that specializes in architectural design services and project management. Lauren, originally from the South Side of Chicago, brings a modern yet holistic approach to design.

We talked about what inspired Lauren to start Zen Ren Design, how she integrates human psychology into the design process and examples of her work where rituals played a key role in the design and more.

Tune in for a conversation filled with thought-provoking perspectives and inspiring stories.

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In this episode, my guest is ⁠Raad Seraj Angel Investor in Therapeutic Psychedelics, Host of the Minority Trip Report Podcast and Founder of the Mission Club. To Read, entrepreneurship is about creating value amid complexity, ambiguity, and uncertainty i.e. amplifying if it exists, building if it doesn’t.

In this podcast episode, we explore psychedelics beyond the substance, touching on if processes, relationships, and business models could embody psychedelic principles. We touch on social impact, sustainability and designing in synergy with nature, posing profound questions about agency, programming, and the nature of human civilization. We discuss the amplifying effects of psychedelics on good and bad, their lack of a moral compass, and their potential to expand our imagination and cosmic connection.

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In this episode, my guest is Laura Dawn who teaches business and thought-leaders, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals how to mindfully explore psychedelics and sacred plant medicines as powerful visionary tools for inner transformation, fostering emotional resiliency and unlocking new depths of our creative potential.

We discuss the fascinating intersection of design, psychology, and psychedelics. Laura shares her unique journey of being 'raised by psychedelics' and its profound impact on her relationship with nature. She also gives insights into navigating the balance between tradition and innovation in the creative process.

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In this episode, my guests are Ece Doğrucu and Toby Fox, two pioneers in this field, and the founders of Unfold. Both have backgrounds in tech and design.

In a world where the exploration of consciousness is increasingly embraced, many individuals turn to psychedelics as a means of self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. Yet, as these substances remain largely illegal in many parts of the world, users often navigate their journeys without adequate guidance or support.

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In this first episode, my guest is Hector Pottie. He is the Creative Director and Head of Creative Europe at the design agency Moving Brands. Hector has worked in the design and branding industry for over 25 years. He works at the forefront of defining and making brands through the holistic experiences they create. Hector cares deeply about what we create and believes designers have the ability and responsibility to help change the world for good.

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