Episode 93
What is it really like to be an underground psychedelic facilitator? What are the joys and challenges of serving medicine in places where it’s illegal? What kinds of life paths bring a person to this work?
Join Michaela Carlin, The Psychedelic Mom, for the first episode in an ongoing series of interviews with brave medicine people working in the psychedelic underground who are willing to come forward and speak about their work anonymously.
In this inaugural episode of the series, Michaela speaks with ‘Rose’, a medicine woman serving 5-MeO-DMT.
Michaela and Rose dive into a profound exploration of what it’s like to guide individuals through the intense and often life-altering journey that 5-MeO-DMT offers. They share about the essential role of surrender in unlocking deep emotional and spiritual healing, the preparation and integration work required for such a powerful experience, and the vast range of reactions - from blissful unity to intense emotional catharsis - that clients encounter.
They also highlight a variety of ethical and personal considerations at play when working with this potent psychedelic in an underground setting.
My deepest thanks to all the underground medicine people who are dedicating their lives to the service of humanity through the sacred work with psychedelics and earth medicines. Your wisdom, courage, and commitment to healing, growth, and connection are a gift to us all. You carry forward ancient traditions and pioneer new paths, reminding us of the deep, transformative power of these sacred plants and substances. We honor your service, your sacrifices, and your profound impact on our collective journey toward wholeness.
Episode Highlights
Exploring 5-MeO-DMT and its profound effects
Rose's first experience receiving 5-MeO-DMT
The potentially transformative effect of 5-MeO-DMT a person’s spirituality
The diverse range of experiences during 5-MeO-DMT sessions
The critical importance of preparation when working with 5-MeO-DMT
The role of surrender in the 5-MeO-DMT experience
Challenges faced by facilitators during difficult sessions
The facilitator's perspective on witnessing intense emotions
Stories of working with 5-MeO-DMT when deep grief is present
Using parts work in conjunction with 5-MeO-DMT therapy
The significance of witnessing and validating client’s emotions
Long-term life changes after 5-MeO-DMT
Turning away clients: the importance of having support structures
Reactivations and cannabis use post-5-MeO-DMT
The challenges of working underground as a facilitator
Further reflections on the importance of intention and surrender
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Special thanks to Jeremy Colbert (Taragápe) for the original podcast theme music.
You can find out more about Jeremey’s work here:
taragape.com and @taragape