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 Estefana detailed CMI's core principles involving memory reconsolidation and addressing outdated attachment strategies, and she discussed her experience in Read more…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…
This discussion between Richard Zwicky and AJ Murillo delves into the complex concept of ego death, exploring its definition, the role of psychedelics, the process of guiding others through the experience, and the personal journey involved. Murillo, author of “The Beginner's Guide to Ego Death,” defines ego death as a Read more…
This discussion with Tom Feegel, founder of Beond, explores their personal journey with opioid addiction and their family member's recovery using ibogaine treatment in Mexico. This experience inspired the creation of Beond, a facility that integrates plant medicine treatments, specifically ibogaine, with comprehensive clinical care, therapeutic support, and a focus Read more…
Richard Zwicky interviewed Terry Tucker, author of Sustainable Excellence, focusing on the core themes of his book. Tucker delved into the motivations behind writing Sustainable Excellence, which stemmed from conversations about life advice and personal success. Key topics explored included finding and living one’s purpose, the critical role of values Read more…
Richard Zwicky explores the transformative journey of retirement with behavioral scientist and author, Sharon Rolph. Known as the “Queen of Courage,” Sharon shares her insights on finding purpose and rediscovering yourself after leaving the workforce. In this episode, we delve into the concept of “golden nuggets”—the invisible assets and unique Read more…
Richard Zwicky delves into the unique approach of Andrew Ecker, who seamlessly blends ancestral heritage with contemporary mental health practices. Ecker begins by sharing their rich family history, including indigenous and European roots, illustrating how this background informs their therapeutic philosophy. They explain how incorporating ancestral traditions and archetypes can Read more…
Susan Schwartz, Ph.D., and Richard Zwicky engage in a rich discussion exploring the multifaceted nature of imposter syndrome. They delve into its psychological origins, tracing it back to unmet emotional needs during childhood and the development of a performance-based sense of self-worth. The conversation highlights how high-achieving individuals often struggle Read more…
Richard Zwicky speaks with Jill Sitnick, a psychedelic integration coach, who shares their experiences with MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD. The discussion delves into the effectiveness of MDMA therapy compared to traditional methods, the ongoing FDA approval delays, and the vital research being conducted by veterans associations. Sitnick also sheds light 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…
How to Combat Toxicity to Foster Innovation and Growth Toxicity in the workplace will undermine organizational success if left unchecked. It erodes trust, hinders collaboration, and stifles creativity, ultimately disrupting innovation and growth. Recognizing and addressing toxicity is crucial for fostering an environment where employees feel valued, motivated, and empowered Read more…
Resilience is not just a character trait; it is a collective strength that drives organizations forward. Resilience has become one of the most in-demand qualities in today’s unpredictable work environment. The ability to recover from setbacks, adapt to changing circumstances, and maintain a positive outlook during challenges is crucial for Read more…
Setting aside time for reflection is often undervalued despite its essential role in fostering learning, self-awareness, and sustainable development. Taking time to evaluate experiences can reveal important insights, recognize accomplishments, and identify areas for improvement. While many people used the Holiday break to reflect, most used the time to catch Read more…
Harnessing the Potential of a Workforce to Drive Organizational Success Empowered employees exhibit higher levels of engagement, innovation, and productivity. As they gain confidence that they have permission to contribute in ways that go beyond the scope of their work, they transform into invaluable assets to their organizations. By emphasizing Read more…
Encouraging Innovation and Creative Thinking As technology and competition continue to evolve, organizations are harder-pressed to remain competitive. Fostering a healthy culture rooted in innovation and creative thinking is a matter of survival. Encouraging employees to seize opportunities, take initiative, and think outside the box provides a safe space for Read more…
The other day, a colleague asked me about how to deal with an organization that had displayed a lack of integrity. I recalled a situation from my past when I worked as an advisor to a firm that ran into financial difficulties. There, when faced with the company’s collapse, the Read more…
Promoting Collaboration and Teamwork for a United Organization Building an organizational culture that promotes collaboration is essential for operational efficiency and for fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose among all staff. When teams work together effectively, they achieve more, innovate faster, and build a culture of mutual respect Read more…
The start of a New Year offers the perfect opportunity to prioritize mental and physical well-being. Mental health and wellness are the foundations that enable employees to thrive in all areas of life, and yet they are topics that most people shy away from discussing. By fostering a workplace culture Read more…
Learning from Challenges While it’s natural for people to focus on victories, reflecting on challenges is even more important. In fact, we can learn more from our mistakes than we ever will from successes. In making mistakes, we open opportunities for ourselves to learn and grow. Without acknowledging our mistakes Read more…
Fresh starts and setting meaningful goals The beginning of any new term is an ideal moment for both employers and employees to pause, reflect, and realign their priorities. The holiday break before the New Year provides a valuable chance to assess what has been effective and what needs adjustment. Setting Read more…
Last week, I had interesting conversations with the presidents of two organizations I advise. They expressed their concerns regarding how to assist staff in managing stress during trying times. Both leaders work with a diverse mix of personalities, some of whom may not completely align with the organization’s objectives. Reviewing Read more…
To succeed as managers, we must develop a diverse skill set. However, to be a leader, we must learn and develop many additional skills that elevate us from good to great. Just as parents develop their parenting abilities while raising their first child, new managers face a significant learning curve Read more…
Mistakes are an inevitable part of our days. We all make them, and some are worse than others. While mistakes can be minor, others can strain relationships or disrupt productivity. Fortunately, when spotted, any mistake provides an opportunity for learning and growth! As a manager, it’s expected that you will Read more…
If we ignore the past, All Cycles Repeat How many monopolies survive long-term? How many companies would succeed long-term if, when faced with competition, they only derided the competitive product and failed to learn from its benefits? Now consider the current political climate and the political debates underway worldwide. Imagine Read more…
In the tech sector, change is the normal expectation on any given day, and within the industry, very few mature business sectors exist. In any industry, not just IT or Tech, product-based companies face unique challenges and opportunities that differ significantly from those encountered by service-oriented businesses. The options for Read more…
In business, the method of funding an owner / operator chooses will significantly influence a company’s trajectory and ultimate success. If you are an executive in a small business startup, you’re likely familiar with some of the funding options available, from venture capital to bank loans. One model of funding Read more…
Perspective is everything and forms the reality we see around us. Many people’s first reaction to reading the title will be to recoil at the inference that churches and criminals are connected. While that topic is interesting, the connection between the two can be explained through statistics. Churches are built Read more…
In last week’s posts, we defined and examined aspects of the most damaging personality type, narcissists. The impact of their malignant tendencies may be felt at work, at home, or both. The stress created certainly is felt throughout. When previously benign relationships take a turn for the worse due to Read more…
It would be wonderful to be able to understand the roots of narcissistic behavior in simple terms. Unfortunately, as is true of all mental health conditions that arise as a result of an Adverse Childhood Experience, pinpointing the events that gave root to the long-term injury is challenging. Without the Read more…
I was discussing narcissistic behaviors with a friend recently, and they voiced frustration with how the term “narcissist” has become increasingly common in casual conversation. It is often used as a label for anyone exhibiting egotistical or self-centered behavior. However, this oversimplification does a disservice to our understanding of the Read more…
Those of us who have ADHD know it can be a superpower when managed properly. However, while there are incredible benefits to ADHD, there are also challenges that others will never face or fully understand. These are no better or worse than anyone else’s challenges, they are just different. Whether you Read more…
Using Insights from Human Design, Enneagram, and MBTI When helping businesspeople assess needs or understand business problems, the question of team composition invariably arises. We should all be focused on surrounding ourselves with people who are better than us. Done right our teams will learn from each other and help Read more…
Impact, Recognition, and Strategies for Mitigating Burnout Leading up to the pandemic, burnout was talked about as a result of overwork. With the heightened awareness of all mental health issues and their effect on the workplace, people’s attitudes have shifted, and there’s recognition that the issues are more subtle, profound, Read more…
In the world of strategic planning and review, the value of an outside perspective cannot be overstated. While your internal teams bring valuable insights and expertise to the table, engaging external viewpoints can inject fresh ideas, challenge assumptions, stimulate creativity, and drive robust participation in the strategic review process. Let’s Read more…
As an advisor to senior executives, I constantly comment on the critical role that leadership plays in shaping an organization’s culture and trajectory. While most are purposeful in adopting positive behaviors to be role models for others, in recent times, we have witnessed several instances where even the most successful 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…