Richard Zwicky - interviews

Richard Zwicky explores the hidden depths of the mind with hypnotherapist Julia Anarino, who specializes in high-performance environments. They dive into how the subconscious governs 95% of our actions and how techniques like hypnotherapy and lucid dreaming can bridge the gap between our conscious goals and subconscious roadblocks. Anarino shares Read more

Richard Zwicky speaks with Reverend Connie Habash—a licensed marriage and family therapist and interfaith minister—to explore how reconnecting with the physical body and the natural world can dissolve the blocks of anxiety and depression. Habash introduces the “back to grazing” concept, explaining how we can retrain our nervous systems to Read more

Richard Zwicky sits down with certified sex educator and author Suzannah Weiss to explore pleasure not just as a physical act, but as a fundamental pillar of emotional resilience and nervous system regulation. Weiss challenges societal stigmas and “gendered norms,” explaining how mindfulness—from savoring a walk on the beach to Read more

Dr. Tammy Nelson, a sex and relationship expert, and Richard Zwicky explore how modern life is fundamentally changing the nature of committed relationships. ]Dr. Nelson, author of Open Monogamy, argues that traditional models are no longer applicable due to longer lifespans and a cultural shift toward processing emotions and trauma. She Read more

Renelle Nelson, creator of The Pleasure Agenda, explores her unique approach as an intimacy and betrayal recovery specialist, focusing on healing after a relationship rupture. Nelson emphasizes that betrayal often includes a “betrayal of self”—losing authenticity—which is frequently rooted in childhood trauma and attachment styles. Her work is centered on helping individuals Read more

Licensed psychotherapist Michelle Smith joins “High on Healthy” to discuss her trauma-informed, client-centric approach to therapy, emphasizing the importance of nervous system regulation and addressing the subconscious mind. Working virtually across Florida, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, and Oregon, Smith utilizes modalities like EMDR, clinical hypnosis, and internal family systems to help Read more

Trauma-informed coach and researcher Melissa Swonger joins host Richard Zwicky to explore the profound connection between unresolved trauma and physical health. Swonger shares her personal journey of recovery after two life-altering accidents, illustrating how the body often “keeps the score” through chronic pain, inflammation, and emotional dysregulation. She introduces her Read more

In this episode of High on Healthy, host Richard Zwicky sits down with scientist and practitioner Brooke McKeever to explore the transformative power of Photobiomodulation (PBM). McKeever explains how targeted light therapy works at a cellular level by stimulating the mitochondria to produce ATP (cellular energy), which accelerates tissue repair Read more

Akary Busto discussed the limitations in the Canadian medical community, particularly concerning women’s healthcare, and the importance of addressing nervous system regulation before mindset changes. Busto, a HeartMath certified coach and quantum human design specialist, emphasized the necessity of considering metabolism and nutrition in mental health conversations, linking metabolic health Read more

In this episode of High on Healthy, host Richard Zwicky speaks with Tim Schurr, a practitioner with over three decades of experience exploring the connection between unconscious belief systems and physical health. Schurr details how chronic conditions like migraines, IBS, and fatigue are often rooted in “initial sensitizing events” from Read more

Richard Zwicky speaks with Irin Rubin, CEO and co-founder of MamaZen and author of the MamaZen Parenting Method. Rubin addresses the modern “crisis” of maternal mental health, arguing that while childbearing is a biological process, the act of mothering in our current isolated society is far from natural. She emphasizes Read more

In this episode of High and Healthy, host Richard Zwicky sits down with researcher and author Michelle Burke to explore the transformative power of “joy gems”—the small, often overlooked moments that ground us in contentment. Burke distinguishes joy from short-term, externally driven happiness, defining it as an internally based skill Read more

Richard Zwicky is joined by Paije West and Fletcher Burdick, co-founders of ETÉREO | Center for Truth (formerly referred to as Arterio). Drawing from their lived experiences with addiction and treatment-resistant depression, they discuss their hybrid model of psychedelic healing based in Baja California Sur, Mexico. The conversation centers on Read more

Richard Zwicky talks with Andrew “Andy” Coop, a professor at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy and chair of Maryland’s Task Force on the Responsible Use of Natural Psychedelic Substances. Coop discusses the task force’s new 250-page report, which outlines a strategic vision for the legal and safe use Read more

In this episode of High and Healthy, host Richard Zwicky sits down with medical journalist and author Jennifer Chesak to discuss her groundbreaking work, The Psilocybin Handbook for Women. The conversation dives into the fascinating intersection of psychedelics, hormonal health, and female physiology, revealing how estrogen can actually amplify the Read more

Richard Zwicky speaks with North Spore founder Matt McInnis who chronicles his journey from a teenage forager to co-founding a mycology company that has pivoted from a fresh mushroom farm to a leader in cultivation products, wellness, and education. They explored the core differences between wild (mycorrhizal, non-cultivable) and cultivated Read more

Licensed therapist Jillian Amodio, author of “Nurturing the Inner Child,” introduced the concept of “pleasure as therapy,” advocating for contentment as the foundational goal for daily happiness over a constant pursuit of extreme joy. The therapeutic approach emphasizes balancing opposing emotions (like love and loss) and employing mindfulness-based techniques to Read more

Dr. Eugene Lipov, pioneer of the Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) for Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI), joined the “High Healthy” show to discuss trauma, mental health, and veterans. He advocated strongly for changing the stigmatizing term PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) to PTSI, viewing it as a physiologic injury, and detailed ongoing Read more

Health coach and nervous system specialist Mitch Webb, explores the profound connection between unresolved emotional trauma and physical symptoms like chronic anxiety, insomnia, and autoimmune challenges. Drawing from personal experience, Mitch details a successful therapeutic approach that integrates both somatic (“bottom up”) and cognitive (“top down”) healing.

Richard Zwicky speaks with Rachel Stanton, a clinical social worker and founder of EMDR Intensives in Boston, on clinical innovation in mental health care. Stanton explains Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as a process of “memory reconciliation” that helps the adult brain integrate new information with past traumatic memories. Read more

Richard Zwicky introduced Mitch Webb as a health coach, nervous system specialist, and trauma-informed practitioner to discuss the critical connection between emotional trauma and physical bodily functions, which Mitch Webb detailed through personal experience with chronic anxiety and insomnia, and their successful therapeutic shift combining both somatic (“bottom up”) and Read more

Dr. Ari Greis and Richard Zwicky discussed the efficacy of medical cannabis as an alternative treatment for chronic orthopedic pain, particularly among the aging patient population, and its role in reducing reliance on opioids. Dr. Greis, a leading clinical voice in the field, shared their experience finding that non-inhalable cannabis Read more

Richard Zwicky hosted licensed psychoanalyst Charley Wininger to explore the potential of MDMA-assisted therapy to improve emotional intimacy, communication, and empathy in relationships. Drawing from personal transformative experiences, Wininger highlighted the critical importance of proper protocols, including supplement use and purity, to avoid negative after-effects. MDMA is explained to temporarily Read more

Casey A. Paleos, MD, a principal investigator and study therapist in psychedelic-assisted therapy, covered his extensive experience with MDMA, psilocybin, and ketamine across research and clinical settings for trauma, depression, and anxiety. Dr. Paleos detailed the mechanism of psychedelics, explaining that they increase the permeability of the “psychic membrane,” allowing Read more

Steven Sultanoff, drawing from 30 years of study and his book, Humor Matters, discussed the importance of humor in mental wellness. He explained the four areas of humor activation—laughter, mirth, wit, and relational fusion—and their associated health benefits. He also shared his personal journey into therapeutic humor, his methods for teaching Read more

Dr. Tom Pinkson, a psychologist and ceremonial leader, explored his work integrating indigenous wisdom and psychedelic medicine. The discussion highlighted the difference between the shamanic approach, which honors the spirit of the plant and emphasizes interconnectedness, and the clinical model. Dr. Pinkson stressed the importance of a community-focused perspective, moving Read more

Cedric Bertelli, founder of the Emotional Health Institute and Emotional Resolution, joined Richard Zwicky to discuss his approach to emotional healing. Emotional Resolution is a teaching methodology designed to resolve debilitating emotional patterns by directing focus to physical sensations experienced during trauma. The discussion highlighted how this method addresses the Read more

Dr. Sarah Schewitz focuses on the critical link between early experiences, parenting styles, and adult attachment patterns (dismissive-avoidant and anxious). Dr. Schewitz explained that recurring conflicts in relationships often signal unresolved attachment trauma. To overcome these past wounds, she stressed the importance of two primary strategies: first, evaluating if emotional Read more

Richard Zwicky speaks with relationship coach Mr. Jay delves into the pitfalls of social media relationship advice, emphasizing that true relationship health stems from the relationship one has with themselves. It highlights how childhood wounds and coping mechanisms often sabotage adult relationships, leading individuals to mistake these defenses for their true Read more

Richard Zwicky welcomes Craig Maltese, author of “A Life Measured in Sessions: Sex, Fitness, and Self-Destruction,” . They discussed the use of humor in addiction recovery, defining healthy sexual relationships, and movement as a tool for healing trauma. Craig emphasized that the core of addressing self-harm through sex is defining Read more

MC Medina joined Richard Zwicky on the podcast to explore their path in music, metaphysics, and holistic healing. They highlighted the concept of “oneness” and how music and resonance shape personal connections. MC Medina also delved into Kazad Prana’s holistic healing method, which uses “sesio scales” and sound healing to Read more

Richard Zwicky introduced Melissa Klass, a trauma-informed relational psychotherapist, who discussed how childhood trauma impacts adult relationships. They defined and explored various attachment styles—secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized—and how these manifest, particularly in anxious-avoidant pairings. The conversation highlighted the importance of repairing relational ruptures, both individually and within new relationships, Read more

Richard Zwicky introduced Simi Lichtman to discuss MDMA-assisted therapy for relational healing and trauma, explaining that MDMA, an empathogen, fosters safety and connection, allowing individuals to address deeply repressed trauma and relationship defenses. Simi highlighted the importance of preparation and integration sessions, cautioning that the therapeutic experience might be challenging, Read more

Richard Zwicky and Christopher Pollock discussed psychedelic-assisted therapy for treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Christopher elaborated on the therapeutic process, safety protocols, including assessment for addictive disorders and blood pressure monitoring, and the crucial role of collaboration with psychiatrists. He explained that this therapy facilitates “ego death” to process trauma Read more

Vladislav Andreev, an executive coach and trauma-informed educator, shared insights on mental health in leadership, the impact of chronic stress, and the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. He discussed the deep-rooted trauma in societies like Lithuania, the neglect of mental health among leaders, and the “O Sapiens” mental health framework he Read more

Dr. Lisa Turner from CCT Found Freedom sharies insights on integrating innovation and humanity in coaching. Dr. Turner, with a background in aeroacoustics and systems engineering, detailed her Conscious Emotional Transformation (CCT) model and outlined three levels of AI use in coaching: productivity hacks, generic chatbots (which she advises against), Read more

Richard Zwicky introduced Dr. Stefanie Mazer, a licensed psychologist and founder of Mindwise Inc., who explained her psychodynamic training and individualized approach to working with neurodivergent clients, especially those with late-diagnosed ADHD and autism. Stefanie expressed concerns about the politicization of mental health diagnoses and insurance, discussed attachment styles and Read more

Dr. Sabrina Hadeed, a licensed therapist, speaks with Richard Zwicky. She specializes in helping individuals and couples address harmful conditioning through existential phenomenological psychology, which emphasizes understanding human experience, meaning-making, and the importance of boundaries and communication. They also explored psychedelic-assisted relational work, specifically using psilocybin and ketamine to foster Read more

Dr. Shereen Mohsen explains how traditional talk therapy can be hindered by a person’s emotional “protectors,” which are defenses like denial that help them function but can also prevent them from addressing core issues. ‘ Psychedelics help to lower these protectors, promoting greater openness and a sense of safety. This Read more

Dr. Sam Zand explains how psychedelic-assisted therapies are revolutionizing mental healthcare by offering new approaches to treat conditions like PTSD, depression, and attachment injuries. He emphasized that these therapies, when combined with traditional methods, help individuals reset their minds, encourage self-exploration, and address underlying issues rather than just symptoms. Dr. Read more

Richard Zwicky introduced Lindsey Yochum from Attune Counseling Center. Lindsey is a licensed marriage and family therapist. She discussed the significance of self-awareness, attachment styles, and relationship repair. Key topics included understanding oneself to cultivate healthy relationships, the vital role of self-compassion, and effective strategies for navigating conflict and supporting Read more

Kayla Meyer, a counselor specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, and attachment styles, talks to Richard Zwicky about attachment styles, defining them as patterns largely influenced by childhood experiences and temperament. Kayla elaborated on the four main attachment styles (secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized), their origins, and their impact on therapeutic Read more

Richard Zwicky welcomed Taylor Santioni, a senior therapist and clinical manager at Sophos Recovery, to discuss emerging trends and tools in mental health treatment, particularly focusing on the evolution of telemental health and AI in therapy. They highlighted the benefits and challenges of AI, emphasizing its role as a supportive Read more

Tom Horvath spoke with Richard Zwicky discussed various aspects of addiction and recovery. Tom clarified common misunderstandings about addiction, emphasizing the importance of long-term meaning and purpose over short-term gratification, and discussed strategies for sustaining change, including letting go of self-blame and focusing on small, back-and-forth steps. They also explored Read more

Richard Zwicky welcomed Suzannah Weiss, a marriage and family therapist and psychedelics journalist, to discuss healing. Suzannah identified abandonment issues as the most common emotional wounds in couples, leading to unhealthy attachments and paranoia. She discussed strategies for addressing abandonment issues, including supporting the partner in their healing, engaging in Read more

Richard Zwicky speaks with Christian Rasmussen, founder of MN Nice Ethnobotanicals on a NEW High on Healthy. We learn about how Amanita Mascaria is safe and offers a unique, gentle transformation for processing trauma and fostering well-being.  Christian shared his personal recovery from benzodiazepine withdrawal with Amanita, explaining its benefits Read more

On a New episode of High on Healthy, Richard Zwicky welcomes Rebecca Webster and Pablo Alvarez, co-founders of Connection Counseling, We learn about their personal journeys into psychotherapy, their use of mindfulness and journaling for healing, and their insights on attachment theory and relationship patterns, emphasizing the importance of both Read more

Richard Zwicky speaks with Matthew Whiz Buckley about his personal journey with trauma, and his transition from the military to Wall Street, and the founding of the No Fallen Heroes Foundation. Matthew also shared his experiences with psychedelic-assisted therapy for veterans and their advocacy for rescheduling psychedelics. Matthew’s ultimate mission Read more

Tim Ash rips away the romantic illusions and exposes the raw, evolutionary psychology behind modern relationships in his new book Primal Dating: The Unflinching Evolutionary Psychology Guide To Modern Relationships. Prepare to confront “the lie of rationality” as Ash reveals how your deepest instincts, not your conscious desires, truly drive Read more

Richard Zwicky welcomed Matt Xavier, detailing his diverse career path, from DJing in rave culture and running a record label to becoming an addiction counselor and, eventually, a practitioner of psychedelic-assisted therapy, emphasizing how all his experiences, including waitering, contributed to his current role. Matt defines music as an “active Read more

Richard Zwicky introduced Rabbi Shlomo Slatkin, an Imago relationship therapist. Rabbi Slatkin explained their approach to relationships, emphasizing the divine orchestration of events, the importance of healing within relationships, and the role of Imago theory in understanding relational dynamics, along with the integration of spirituality and psychology. They discussed how Read more

Richard Zwicky welcomed Jessica Yaffa to a recording session where she shared her personal journey of transforming pain into purpose after surviving an abusive relationship. Jessica discussed her work helping others rebuild self-worth and safety by challenging societal messages, emphasizing healing through connection, and highlighting the importance of accountability and Read more

Dee Dee Goldpaugh, a trauma and sex therapist, explained how her book, “Embrace Pleasure: How Psychedelics Can Heal Our Sexuality,” offers a gentle critique of current psychedelic-assisted therapy, defining “pleasure” as a sensory experience of being alive, which, combined with psychedelics, helps individuals overcome trauma, trust themselves, and foster deeper Read more

Richard Zwicky introduced the concept that physical pain often has emotional roots, and has a discussion with Timothy Spriggs, a certified energy healer and founder of Revive Wellness Center in Albuquerque. Timothy Spriggs discussed the concept of physical pain having emotional roots, with Timothy Spriggs explaining that trapped emotions and Read more

Richard Zwicky and Katie Luman discussed the importance of core values in forming secure attachments, the impact of early experiences on attachment styles, and therapeutic approaches including the potential role of psychedelics. They also explored strategies for identifying genuine values, managing the nervous system, overcoming hyper independence, addressing past hurts, Read more

Dr. Shannon Hughes from Elemental Psychedelics discussed Colorado's leading role in psychedelic policy, highlighting the tension between formal legalization and grassroots practices, as well as ethical considerations in mushroom work, such as myths around quick healing and potential facilitator ego inflation. She emphasized the importance of careful selection of therapeutic Read more

Richard Zwicky spoke with Dr. Joseph Tucker, CEO of Enveric Biosciences about their development of non-hallucinogenic neuroplastogens, inspired by psychedelic research, to stimulate neuroplasticity for therapeutic benefits. Dr. Tucker explained the distinction from psychedelics, the potential for regular use due to a shorter duration of effect, and the challenges in Read more

Richard Zwicky introduced Aleya Fraser, author of “Caribbean Herbalism,” a book exploring traditional plant knowledge. Fraser emphasizes documenting oral traditions while respecting cultural contexts and intellectual property. She highlighted cacao's subtle psychoactive properties and advised listeners to reconnect with ancestral knowledge through observation and research. Fraser, an author and ethnobotanist, Read more

Richard Zwicky interviewed Cat Rambo about her work in alternative wellness and sacred medicine. Cat Rambo shared insights into her journey, the diverse modalities in their practice, and the applications of various sacred medicines such as Ayahuasca, psilocybin, and Bufo. A key emphasis was placed on the importance of ceremonial Read more

Richard Zwicky talks to Ryan S. Sultan MD about psychedelic treatments in psychiatry, highlighting ketamine's role in treating depression and its potential to enhance psychotherapy, as well as discussing the promise and challenges of other psychedelics like psilocybin for various conditions. Ryan believes psychedelics provide access to deeper underlying issues, particularly Read more

Richard Zwicky introduced Estefana Johnson, who presented Critical Memory Integration (CMI) as a novel approach focusing on internal experiences and nervous system responses to facilitate healing, contrasting with purely cognitive methods. Estefana detailed CMI's core principles involving memory reconsolidation and addressing outdated attachment strategies, and she discussed her experience in Read more

Richard Zwicky interviewed certified EMDR and Brainspotting psychotherapist Janet Bayramyan about her holistic approach to trauma therapy, which integrates ketamine-assisted EMDR, body awareness, and consideration of cultural and generational trauma. Bayramyan's approach, which integrates lifestyle and holistic factors into therapy. Bayramyan emphasized the importance of body awareness in trauma processing and Read more

Richard Zwicky talks with Lincoln Stoller about a community-based approach to therapy. Stoller's presentation covered self-assessment, the role of failure in success, and emotional processing in therapy, particularly with psychedelics and high-performing clients. The conversation touched on the challenges therapists and clients face and the importance of confronting difficult experiences. Read more

Dorcy Pruter, founder of the Conscious Co-Parenting Institute and the Church of Soul Illumination, discussed her journey and work with host Richard Zwicky on the podcast High and Healthy. Pruter shared that her work began in 2006, motivated by personal experiences of parental alienation during her divorce and childhood. This Read more

Richard Zwicky talks with Dr. Tirrell De Gannes about the ethical considerations and potential benefits of using AI in mental health, emphasizing the importance of informed consent and human connection in therapy.  Dr. De Gannes highlighted the need for AI to complement, not replace, professional help. They also explored how Read more

Richard Zwicky speaks with Josie Castaneda about her kurandera practice, which combines traditional Mexican herbal healing with holistic approaches to address mental, physical, and lifestyle factors. Castaneda explained kuranderismo encompasses various healing practices, including herbalism (yervas), which is her specialty. She discussed her approach to healing, emphasizing the interconnectedness of Read more

Phyllis Leavitt discusses how family systems dynamics apply to national healing, focusing on ineffective communication and a “win-lose” paradigm as key factors in national division. She stresses the importance of individual healing through addressing personal trauma and societal injustices, and proposed communication techniques like reflective listening and accepting individuality to Read more

Julian Wichmann, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Bloomwell Group, shared findings from a sleep disorder study involving over 1,000 patients. The study revealed that 80% of patients reported a significant reduction in symptoms when using medical cannabis. Additionally, patient satisfaction was high, with medical cannabis being rated more effective than Read more

Dr. Mary Darden-Robinson, introduced by Richard Zwicky, engaged in a discussion regarding the concept of “toxic diversity deserts” in workplace environments. She highlighted the detrimental effects of these environments on professionals of color, detailing experiences of isolation, gaslighting, and the undermining of their work. Dr. Robinson emphasized the importance of Read more

Dr. Shila Patel discussed the pandemic's impact on mental health, emphasizing increased anxiety, depression, and societal fracturing due to social isolation. She highlighted the effects on children and older men specifically. Dr. Patel attributed increased anxiety, depression, and societal fracturing due to social isolation to the pandemic. She noted these Read more

Richard Zwicky interviewed Sabrina Trobak, a trauma recovery counselor, about her therapeutic model, which focuses on resolving core beliefs and past traumas to improve mental well-being, as well as coping mechanisms, the impact of past experiences, and the intergenerational transmission of trauma. Sabrina Trobak's book, “Not Good Enough,” is a Read more

Hugh Flynn, an award-winning journalist and playwright, about his recently published memoir, Something Special Be. This memoir chronicles Flynn's personal experience of becoming his brother Aaron's conservator. Aaron, who had Down syndrome, was a significant figure in Flynn's life, and the book delves into their relationship, Aaron's unique personality, and his Read more

Richard Zwicky interviewed Fraser Johnston of Enthotech Clinic, a multidisciplinary clinic offering treatments for chronic pain and mental health conditions. The clinic uses intramuscular ketamine as its primary treatment modality, along with sublingual ketamine, psilocybin, and MDMA (under Health Canada's Special Access Program).  They also offer pain treatments and mind-body Read more

Scott McLean, creator of the Visual Color Timer, detailed the unique features of his product, emphasizing its bright green colors and front and back LED lights for a 360-degree color display. He explained its value for families and groups, particularly in managing routines and screen time, and how it facilitates Read more

Dr. Jonathan Fields, a distinguished integrative doctor, author, martial arts instructor, keynote speaker, and plant medicine advocate, discusses his multifaceted approach to health, encompassing functional medicine, acupuncture, sports medicine, and specialized areas like autoimmune and mental health. He is the co-founder of CRA Health in Boca Raton, Florida, and will Read more

High on Healthy catches up with Dr. Jonathan Fields at Wonderland Miami, a psychedelic and longevity event. Dr. Fields, a nationally board-certified herbalist with a doctorate and master's in acupuncture and Eastern medicine, discusses his multifaceted approach to health and wellness, which extends far beyond conventional Western medicine. His practice encompasses Read more