Jimmy shares an in-depth conversation with Dr. Michael Sapiro, whose unique approach to psychedelic psychotherapy emphasizes the courage needed to align with one's authentic self. His clinical work extends specialized support to veterans and first responders, healing those who run toward, rather than away from, trauma.
Key Takeaways
- Trauma and Truth: Dr. Sapiro's holistic approach to is founded on a convergence of generational trauma, early psychedelic experiences, and the structural discipline of Buddhism.
- Active vs. Passive Facilitation: He advocates for active psychotherapy during altered states, viewing it as "practice rounds" of positive change when the ego is subdued—but it must be done with extreme care.
- Healing the Caregivers: Veterans and first responders experience unique trauma exposure, and those who protect others also need to care for themselves.
About Our Guest
Michael Ryoshin Sapiro, PsyD, is an ordained Zen Buddhist monk, poet, clinical psychologist, psychedelic psychotherapist, researcher and meditation teacher, he’s also the author of Truth Medicine: Healing and Living Authentically through Psychedelic Psychotherapy.
- Dr. Michael Sapiro’s website
- His book & audiobook: Truth Medicine: Healing and Living Authentically through Psychedelic Psychotherapy
- Shift Network Course: A 7-week course on how to enact lasting change and live your truth
- “Malcom and the Monk” podcast coming out Jan 2026 by VETS
-
Today’s episode is brought to you by North Spore, who makes mushroom cultivation approachable for curious beginners and experienced home growers. North Spore’s grow kits, spawn, substrates, and lab supplies let you explore the process of growing your own gourmet and medicinal mushrooms right at home.
Start your next grow with North Spore
Use code PSYCHEPASSAGE for 10% off
-
Psychedelic Passage is your partner in safe, supported, and effective psychedelic journeys. As the first concierge service in the U.S., we connect you with vetted facilitators who value integrity and expertise. We're glad you're here, and we look forward to supporting you on your journey.
No mushroom source? No problem.
Download our Free Psilocybin Sourcing Guide.
Want guidance tailored to your need?
Book a free Pathfinding Call for personal support.
Curious or seeking connection?
Join our online care community to learn, share, and grow with others.
Join our next Q&A or Facilitator Chat for free.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark
My Favorite Murder is a true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. Each week, Karen and Georgia share compelling true crimes and hometown stories from friends and listeners. Since MFM launched in January of 2016, Karen and Georgia have shared their lifelong interest in true crime and have covered stories of infamous serial killers like the Night Stalker, mysterious cold cases, captivating cults, incredible survivor stories and important events from history like the Tulsa race massacre of 1921. My Favorite Murder is part of the Exactly Right podcast network that provides a platform for bold, creative voices to bring to life provocative, entertaining and relatable stories for audiences everywhere. The Exactly Right roster of podcasts covers a variety of topics including historic true crime, comedic interviews and news, science, pop culture and more. Podcasts on the network include Buried Bones with Kate Winkler Dawson and Paul Holes, That's Messed Up: An SVU Podcast, This Podcast Will Kill You, Bananas and more.