Author: 26880042

Irreverent Health-103- Sara Urquhart & Psychedelics in the Beehive

Sara Urquhart & Psychedelics in the Beehive

October 17, 2024 No Comments

Summary

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the evolving culture of psychedelics in Utah, particularly in relation to the Mormon Church. Sara Urquhart shares her personal journey of leaving the church and how many individuals are finding healing through therapy and psychedelics. The discussion also touches on the legal landscape for psychedelics in Utah, the creation of a mushroom church for spiritual practices, and the importance of community in navigating these experiences. In this conversation, Sara Urquhart discusses the importance of personal interpretation in spirituality, the role of community in healing, and the integration of psychedelic experiences into everyday life. The dialogue explores how individuals can recreate a sense of belonging and support outside traditional religious structures, emphasizing the significance of sober gatherings and shared experiences. The conversation also touches on the evolving perceptions of psychedelics and mental health, highlighting the need for safe practices and the importance of integration after psychedelic journeys. In this conversation, Sara Urquhart discusses the significance of taking actionable steps after gaining insights from psychedelic experiences. She explains the concept of the Mushroom Church, where individuals create their own personal creeds, and the church’s approach to psychedelics. The conversation transitions into the evolution of their annual psychedelic festival, highlighting its growth and the diverse programming planned for the upcoming event. Sara emphasizes the community aspect and the intention behind their activities, aiming to create a space for healing, creativity, and connection.

Takeaways

  • Utah has a growing psychedelic culture despite its religious background.
  • Leaving a high-demand religion can lead to exploration of psychedelics for healing.
  • Psychedelics are being recognized for their therapeutic benefits.
  • Legal frameworks for psychedelics vary significantly across states.
  • Creating a religious framework can provide protections for psychedelic use.
  • Community support is crucial for individuals leaving traditional religions.
  • Psychedelics can facilitate deep personal and spiritual experiences.
  • The conversation around psychedelics is shifting from prohibition to acceptance.
  • Microdosing is gaining popularity as a means of enhancing well-being.
  • Religious trauma is a common theme among those exploring psychedelics. No one is telling you what the medicine wants from you.
  • We don’t distribute medicine; all of our events are sober.
  • We want people to worship in a way that feels safe and healthy.
  • Religion should be about community.
  • The rules are broken in terms of societal norms.
  • Insights can come from a million places, not just therapy.
  • Integration is key after psychedelic experiences.
  • Sometimes psychedelics can be playful and creative.
  • You have to approach psychedelics with a modicum of reverence.
  • If you’re not doing real integration, you’re just getting stoned. You must do the work after gaining insights to change your life.
  • Personal creeds allow individuals to define their own spiritual practices.
  • The Mushroom Church welcomes various psychedelic practices.
  • The festival has evolved from a small gathering to a large event.
  • Community engagement is a key focus of the festival.
  • The festival will feature a mix of speakers, music, and creative activities.
  • Family-friendly programming is available during the day.
  • The church aims to provide protections for its members.
  • Future plans include expanding the festival grounds and activities.
  • The goal is to attract a larger audience for the upcoming festival.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
02:56 Exploring Psychedelics in Utah
05:54 Leaving the Mormon Church
08:54 The Role of Psychedelics in Healing
11:48 Legalities of Psychedelics in Utah
15:04 Creating a Mushroom Church
18:02 Community and Spirituality in Psychedelics
25:07 The Power of Personal Interpretation
26:01 Community and Sober Gatherings
27:30 Recreating Community Through Shared Experiences
28:35 The Role of Religion in Community Building
31:11 Expanding Consciousness and Psychedelics
34:14 First Experiences with Psychedelics
40:14 Integration of Insights from Psychedelics
46:16 The Balance of Fun and Healing in Psychedelic Use
52:34 The Importance of Action After Insight
53:34 Psychedelic Practices and Personal Creeds
54:50 Joining the Mushroom Church
55:32 The Evolution of the Psychedelic Festival
58:35 Festival Programming and Activities
01:01:51 Future Plans and Community Engagement

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Irreverent Health-104-Jill Sitnick & MDMA

Jill Sitnick & MDMA

September 6, 2024 No Comments

Summary

In this conversation, Matt, Tom, and Jill discuss various topics, including the experience of microdosing LSD, the challenges of perimenopause, the importance of responsible data consumption, and the lack of intelligence in some decision-makers. They highlight the need for accurate information and critical thinking in discussions about drugs, health, and public policy. The conversation explores the need to update and evolve our current systems and beliefs, particularly in the context of psychedelic medicine and decentralization. The guests discuss the limitations of traditional research methods in studying psychedelic compounds and the need for new approaches. They also highlight the influence of media and propaganda in shaping public perception. The conversation touches on the importance of questioning established norms and beliefs, and the potential for blockchain technology to provide a decentralized and fact-checked platform for information. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for continuous learning, adaptation, and reevaluation of our perspectives and systems. In this conversation, Jill discusses the need for patients to advocate for themselves and be educated about their own health. She shares her frustration with doctors who dismiss or ignore her symptoms and emphasizes the importance of finding reliable resources and being prepared when visiting healthcare professionals. Matt and Tom also express their frustration with the outdated and unidirectional approach of many doctors and the need for a more open-minded and patient-centered approach to healthcare. They discuss the limitations of doctors’ knowledge and the rapid advancements in medical research and technology. Jill plans to expand her content to provide resources and information on various topics related to health and medicine.

Takeaways

  • Microdosing LSD can have different effects on individuals, and finding the right dosage and schedule is a personal journey.
  • Perimenopause and brain fog are real challenges that many women face, and it’s important to seek support and understanding.
  • Fluency in data consumption is crucial to navigate the overwhelming amount of information available, and it’s important to critically evaluate sources and claims.
  • Some decision-makers lack the necessary knowledge and understanding to make informed decisions, highlighting the importance of holding them accountable and seeking accurate information.
  • Open and honest conversations about drugs, health, and public policy are essential to promote responsible and evidence-based approaches. Traditional research methods may not be suitable for studying psychedelic compounds and alternative approaches are needed.
  • Media and propaganda play a significant role in shaping public perception and can hinder progress in certain areas.
  • It is important to question established norms and beliefs and be open to updating and evolving our perspectives.
  • Decentralization and blockchain technology have the potential to provide more transparent and fact-checked information.
  • Continuous learning, adaptation, and reevaluation are necessary for personal and societal growth. Patients need to advocate for themselves and be educated about their own health
  • Doctors should have a more open-minded and patient-centered approach to healthcare
  • Finding reliable resources and being prepared when visiting healthcare professionals is crucial
  • The field of medicine is rapidly advancing, and doctors need to stay updated on the latest research and technology.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Excitement about Returning Guest
00:37 Updates on the Show and Future Plans
01:46 Expanding Repertoire and Experience with Microdosing LSD
02:24 Exploring Iboga Retreat and Perimenopause Challenges
03:19 Effects of Microdosing LSD and Personal Experiences
07:40 The Importance of Responsible Data Consumption
14:47 The Lack of Intelligence in Decision-Makers
19:36 Promoting Open and Honest Conversations
23:30 Rethinking Research Methods
25:34 Challenges of Double-Blind Placebo Controlled Studies
30:01 The Limitations of FDA Approval Process
33:21 America’s Drug Culture and Lobbying
39:08 The Need for Evolution and Upgrades
44:03 Distinguishing Between Dissenting Views and Falsehoods
46:51 Reevaluating How We Measure Things
49:30 Patient Advocacy and Education
50:11 Challenging the Outdated Approach of Doctors
51:16 Considering Different Perspectives
52:30 The Limitations of Medical Treatments
55:01 The Importance of Being Informed
57:43 Expressing Frustration and Seeking Change
01:06:33 Future Content and Discussions
01:09:06 Amplifying Voices and Sharing Knowledge

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Irreverent Health-107-Tom & Matt & Ritual

Tom & Matt & Ritual

September 26, 2024 No Comments

Summary

In this conversation, Matt and Tom explore the complexities of life post-COVID, focusing on the rituals surrounding food, health, and intentional living. They discuss how food has transformed into a ritualistic experience, the role of cannabis and psychedelics in their lives, and the importance of intentionality in daily practices. The conversation also delves into the intricacies of health and nutrition, the innovations in cooking and food preparation, and the exploration of new culinary experiences. In this engaging conversation, Tom and Matt delve into various topics surrounding health, nutrition, and the integration of technology in modern wellness practices. They discuss the importance of meat quality, particularly grass-fed options, and share personal experiences related to weight loss and dietary choices. The duo emphasizes the significance of traditional practices, morning rituals, and the role of movement in maintaining health. They also explore the science behind oxygen therapy and the potential benefits of integrating technology into health routines. The conversation wraps up with reflections on ancient wisdom and the impact of AI on information sharing in today’s world.

Takeaways

  • Time feels distorted in the post-COVID world.
  • Food rituals can enhance the dining experience.
  • Cannabis is viewed as a form of medicine.
  • Intentional living requires mindfulness in daily practices.
  • Health and nutrition are complex and multifaceted.
  • Cooking innovations can inspire creativity in the kitchen.
  • Exploring new culinary experiences can be rewarding.
  • Rituals can provide structure and meaning to life.
  • Flexibility in rituals can lead to better mental health.
  • Understanding personal dietary needs is crucial for well-being. Quality of meat matters more than quantity.
  • Grass-fed meat has distinct health benefits.
  • Personal weight loss journeys can be motivating.
  • Morning rituals set the tone for the day.
  • Movement is essential for overall health.
  • Oxygen therapy can enhance physical performance.
  • Integrating technology can improve health practices.
  • Ancient wisdom still holds relevance today.
  • AI can help recycle lost information.
  • Social media can distract from meaningful engagement.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating the Post-COVID World
03:06 Rituals and Food: A New Perspective
05:58 The Role of Cannabis and Psychedelics
09:03 Intentional Living and Rituals
12:01 The Complexity of Health and Nutrition
15:00 Cooking and Food Preparation Innovations
17:53 Exploring New Culinary Experiences
36:30 The Meat Debate: Quality vs. Quantity
39:48 Exploring the Benefits of Grass-Fed Meat
41:49 Weight Loss Journeys and Personal Goals
44:20 The Importance of Movement and Traditional Practices
46:34 Morning Rituals and Their Impact on Daily Life
48:58 The Science of Oxygen and Health Benefits
51:37 Integrating Technology in Health Practices
01:00:58 Rediscovering Ancient Wisdom in Modern Health
01:09:05 The Role of AI in Modern Information Sharing

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Irreverent Health-102- Dr. Nicole Amada & Self

Dr. Nicole Amada & Self

August 29, 2024 No Comments

Summary

In this conversation, Matt and Tom speak with Dr. Nicole Amada about cognitive psychology, self-actualization, and the integration of psychedelic experiences. They discuss the importance of connection and how it leads to meaningful conversations. Dr. Amada explains her background in cognitive psychology and her focus on self-referential cognition and identity. They explore the relationship between neuroscience and humanistic psychology, as well as the concept of ego death and the integration of psychedelic experiences. The conversation highlights the need for mindfulness, self-awareness, and the cultivation of space within oneself to transcend the ego and experience personal growth. The conversation explores the themes of shame, control, fear, and the human experience of mortality. It delves into the societal evolution of addressing shame and the impact of shame on individuals. The discussion also touches on the role of religion in perpetuating shame and control, as well as the attachment to stories and narratives that shape our beliefs. The conversation expands to include topics such as psychedelics, the fear of death, and the duality of life. It concludes with a reflection on the importance of embracing the present moment, gratitude, and the pursuit of enlightenment. The conversation explores the impact of the Age of Information on human evolution and the obsession with social media and fame. It delves into the dangers of living in comfort and the importance of embracing adversity and challenges. The guests discuss the subjective nature of meaning and the need for intentionality in decision-making. They also touch on the isolation caused by social media and the potential for self-discovery and growth.

Takeaways

  • Connection and meaningful conversations are essential for personal growth.
  • The integration of psychedelic experiences requires mindfulness and self-awareness.
  • Ego death is not about superiority or inferiority, but about transcending the ego and cultivating space within oneself.
  • Discipline is different from control, as it allows for surrender and malleability.
  • The true integration of psychedelic experiences is reflected in how individuals show up in their relationships and interactions. Society has evolved in addressing shame and flushing out shame more than in the past.
  • Religion can perpetuate shame and control through stories and narratives.
  • The fear of death is deeply ingrained in human nature, but it becomes maladaptive when not paired with contemplation and acceptance of mortality.
  • Gratitude and presence are important in embracing the duality of life and experiencing both the good and the painful aspects.
  • The pursuit of enlightenment involves confronting existential paradoxes and accepting the interconnectedness of all things. The Age of Information has had a profound impact on human evolution and our ability to address primitive dominance.
  • The obsession with social media and fame rewards the inflated ego and perpetuates the primitive nature of dominance.
  • Living in comfort can lead to self-induced pain and a lack of fulfillment, as the human spirit thrives on overcoming challenges and adversity.
  • Meaning is subjective and can be assigned to cause and effect, and intentionality is crucial in decision-making.
  • Social media can create a facade of connection while isolating individuals from genuine human connection and experiences.
  • Embracing adversity and challenges can lead to self-discovery and personal growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Connection
01:56 Cognitive Psychology and Self-Actualization
05:53 The Relationship Between Neuroscience and Humanistic Psychology
10:10 Understanding Ego Death and Integration of Psychedelic Experiences
12:53 The Importance of Mindfulness and Self-Awareness
19:06 Transcending the Ego and Cultivating Personal Growth
31:48 The Evolution of Addressing Shame
37:21 Religion and the Perpetuation of Shame
43:39 The Fear of Death and Mortality
53:01 Embracing the Duality of Life
57:14 Gratitude and Presence in the Face of Mortality
01:03:49 The Pursuit of Enlightenment and Acceptance
01:03:56 The Impact of the Age of Information
01:04:26 The Obsession with Social Media and Fame
01:05:22 The Dangers of Living in Comfort
01:07:54 The Subjective Nature of Meaning
01:09:06 The Importance of Intentionality in Decision-Making
01:11:47 The Isolation Caused by Social Media

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

AI Improves Stroke Prevention in Heart Patients

May 1, 2024 No Comments

Utilizing the Power of Artificial Intelligence for Stroke Prevention

A team from The Ohio State University has made significant strides in stroke prevention measures for heart disease patients with the use of artificial intelligence. Their innovative AI strategy harbors the potential to redefine clinical trial execution.

A Groundbreaking AI Algorithm

The team has developed an AI algorithm that excels at predicting the most beneficial interventions to prevent strokes. Its effectiveness could potentially surpass the accuracy associated with randomized clinical trials, a gold standard in medical research. The algorithm uses anonymized patient data obtained from healthcare claims to provide personalized treatment plans, eliminating the need for physical clinical trials.

Introducing the ‘Digital Twin’

The researchers from Ohio State propose a major shift in clinical decision-making with their concept of a ‘digital twin’ for each patient. This virtual model grants healthcare professionals the ability to identify the optimal treatment paths with higher precision. The model operates similarly to generative AI applications, such as ChatGPT, using comprehensive patient records to estimate stroke risk and predict potential treatments.

Unique and Efficient

Leading the study, Ping Zhang, an associate professor in both computer science, engineering, and biomedical informatics, highlights the unique efficiency of their algorithm. Zhang emphasizes their AI’s ability to replicate the results of a randomized clinical trial, outperforming competing models by a notable 7% to 8%.

The CURE Framework

The CURE framework, which stands for CaUsal tReatment Effect estimation, marks a breakthrough in using healthcare claim records in conjunction with biomedical knowledge graphs. This combination allows the AI to quickly adjust and provide accurate prognoses across a multitude of medical conditions and treatments.

In the pre-training phase, the researchers utilized data from the MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters, analyzing a sample of 3 million patient cases encompassing a variety of medical and medication codes.

Ruoqi Liu, a doctoral candidate for computer science and engineering in Zhang’s lab, played a crucial role in the model’s development. Liu applauded the model’s adaptability, demonstrating an ability to pre-train on large-scale datasets without needing specific treatments.

The implications of this research extend to speeding up drug selection in clinical trials, increasing the accuracy of personalized therapy, and reducing the costs and time traditionally associated with clinical research. The project showcases the growing influence of AI in healthcare decision-making. Awaiting approval from regulatory agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration, this study serves as a beacon of hope regarding the future integration of AI into healthcare.

The research was published in the journal Patterns on May 1, 2024, and was supported by the National Institutes of Health. The study was also underpinned by contributions from esteemed individuals such as Pin-Yu Chen from IBM Research and Lingfei Wu of Anytime AI.

OpenAI Mulls Over Adult Content Generation via AI

May 8, 2024 No Comments

Recent Disclosure: OpenAI Open to Adult-Oriented Application of AI

Recent disclosures reveal that OpenAI is exploring the creation of adult-oriented content via AI technologies with responsible intentions. OpenAI’s public draft guidelines signal a potential policy change to include a wider array of adult material through their ChatGPT and API resources.

At this time, OpenAI disallows generating sexually explicit or suggestive content. Nonetheless, discussions included in the company’s Model Spec document hint at the possibility of allowing such content within specific contexts. OpenAI comments on this matter: “We’re exploring whether we can responsibly provide the ability to generate NSFW content in age-appropriate contexts through the API and ChatGPT.” This exploration process includes an evaluation of “user and societal expectations of model behavior in this area.”

Navigating Ethical Concerns and Public Sentiments

The emergence of AI-generated explicit content raises ethical questions and concerns about potential harm. Recognized legal scholar Danielle Keats Citron has highlighted the widespread and damaging impact of violation of intimate privacy, including deepfake sex videos and synthesized images created without consent. Deepfake pornography, especially when it involves real individuals depicted without their agreement, has led to harassment and significant distress, disproportionately affecting women and girls.

OpenAI has asserted its commitment to disallowing unauthorized impersonation, pointing to the ongoing prohibition of nonconsensual explicit imagery. Despite this, there is ongoing apprehension regarding how OpenAI will regulate the generation of explicit content to prevent misuse. This concern is heightened by reports from 404 Media, which claims that AI tools from Microsoft were used to craft and circulate explicit images of the celebrity Taylor Swift across various online platforms.

In a bid for clarity and public engagement, OpenAI spokesperson Grace McGuire provided insight into the intention behind making the exploration process public, stating that the aim is to embrace openness, gather diverse insights, and prompt feedback. Niko Felix, another OpenAI representative, clarified: “We do not have any intention for our models to generate AI porn.”

However, Joanne Jang from OpenAI conceded the determination of any generated content being categorized as adult content could ultimately be subject to the users’ interpretation, as quoted, “Depends on your definition of porn.”

As debates over AI’s ethical development progress, complex questions arise concerning the role and governance of pioneering AI technologies. While OpenAI offers some insight into its ongoing explorations, the company proceeds cautiously with specifics. The larger community, including concerned individuals and industry experts, continues to weigh the need for balance between pioneering innovation and principled responsibility. Whether AI’s growth in this area will tilt more towards technological advances or ethical restrictions is a topic of considerable interest and importance.

Most Popular: