341: Microdosing Benefits and Risks with Paul Austin

"I wish more people knew that psychedelics are safe and effective when used intentionally." - Guest Paul Austin

In this episode of I AM HUMAN, we learn about the controversial subject of psychedelics, microdosing and the evolution in this space. My guest Paul Austin, founder of Third Wave, shares his journey from a traditional upbringing to becoming a leading figure in the psychedelic community, offering a unique perspective on overcoming stigma and embracing these substances for personal growth and healing.  

 

Our conversation takes a deep dive into the therapeutic applications of psychedelics, particularly in mental health. Paul illustrates how small, regular doses can serve as maintenance for the mind, enhancing daily life without disrupting routines. We also discuss the profound impact of high doses in alleviating conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD, emphasizing the importance of setting and intention for effective therapy. With promising findings from clinical trials on substances like MDMA, we highlight how these therapies offer hope to veterans and others suffering from long-term PTSD. Finally, we explore the shifting legal landscape, focusing on places like Oregon and Colorado, where plant medicines have been legalized.  

 

Paul Austin, a prominent figure in psychedelics, has guided millions to safe and meaningful psychedelic experiences through his work as the founder of Third Wave. Featured in Forbes, Rolling Stone, and the BBC's Worklife, he pioneers the convergence of psychedelics, personal transformation, and professional success. Paul empowers leaders, creatives, and pioneers to leverage psychedelics for profound personal and professional growth. He views psychedelics as refined skills cultivated through mentorship, exploration, and purposeful use—critical for  humanity's ongoing evolution. As the longest-standing and youngest entrepreneur in this field, Paul's focus on merging psychedelics with professional development is evident in his transformative training program Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The program caters to individuals who seek to integrate their psychedelic experiences into their business practices, all under the guidance of one of the industry’s most trusted leaders. 

 

Discussion points: 

• (00:00) Introduction of guest Paul Austin, his path to psychedelics 
• (09:00) Defining and categorizing psychedelics 
• (14:00) Overview of decriminalization and legal use in certain regions, high doses vs. microdoses in mental health   
• (20:00) Historical context and modern applications for PTSD treatment, the importance of safe use for predisposed psychiatric conditions 
• (23:00) Three waves of psychedelics, misinformation and legal shutdown in the 60s 
• (28:00) Guide to use with trained oversight, debunking myths, setting intention for effective therapy 
• (30:00) What actually happens to the brain when microdosing, how long it takes, what to expect, advise on how to start, mastering their use 
• (42:00) Places where natural medicines are legal or decriminalized 
• (45:00) Closing questions, what we wish people knew 
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Resources: 

http://paulaustin.co 

https://thethirdwave.co/ 

https://psychedeliccoaching.institute/ 

Practitioner Training http