Ayahuasca Podcast with Sam Believ

Ego, enlightenment and integration with Daniel Shankin

In this episode of Ayahuasca Podcast, host Sam Believ (founder of www.lawayra.com) has a conversation with Daniel Shankin, a mindfulness coach and psychedelic integration specialist. Daniel is the founder of TAM Integration, which provides support, education, and integration circles for those working with psychedelics. He also leads the Mountain TAM Psychedelic Integration Coaching Program, training emerging facilitators in integration practices.
Topics Covered:
(00:34 - 02:21) Daniel’s early psychedelic experiences and how they shaped his path
(02:23 - 03:49) The evolution of integration and its growing importance in psychedelic use
(04:11 - 07:39) What psychedelic integration actually means and how it works in practice
(08:28 - 10:52) Defining enlightenment: is it real, and what does it look like?
(12:20 - 17:43) Relationships, marriage, and how psychedelics impact personal growth
(18:24 - 19:55) Couples using psychedelics together—how should they integrate their experiences?
(20:52 - 26:44) Working with difficult psychedelic experiences—when to seek clinical support
(27:10 - 29:08) PTSD, CPTSD, and the potential of psychedelics in healing trauma
(30:19 - 34:29) The importance of a supportive environment post-ceremony
(35:09 - 38:54) The thin line between spiritual experiences and psychological projections
(41:15 - 43:07) Shadow work—what it truly means and how to approach it
(43:12 - 46:48) Mindfulness and integration: how self-awareness helps psychedelic experiences land
(47:00 - 50:32) The ego and the default mode network—understanding the role of self-identity in psychedelic work
(52:19 - 55:32) The Mountain TAM Psychedelic Integration Coaching Program and how it trains integration coaches
If you would like to attend one of our Ayahuasca retreats, go to www.lawayra.com.
Find out more about Daniel Shankin and his work at www.tamintegration.com or follow him on Instagram at @tamintegration.

Why grandma's should smoke weed. Psychedelic storytelling with Lex Pelger

Podcast Bio – Ayahuasca Podcast: Sam Believ with Lex Pelger
In this episode of Ayahuasca Podcast, host Sam Believ (founder of www.lawayra.com) has a conversation with Lex Pelger.
Lex Pelger is a science communicator, writer, and educator specializing in psychedelics, cannabis, and human consciousness. With a background in biochemistry and molecular biology, he bridges complex scientific research with the public. Lex has authored graphic novels about cannabis, led storytelling events on psychedelics, and currently publishes Cannabinoids and the People, a newsletter covering the latest cannabinoid science.
We touch upon topics of:
(00:48 - 02:42) Lex’s journey into psychedelics and plant medicine
(02:56 - 04:50) Science, mysticism, and the study of the "supernormal"
(05:28 - 07:13) What it means to be a "drug writer" and bridging the knowledge gap
(07:44 - 10:08) Cannabis and grandmothers: why older adults should consider cannabinoids
(10:51 - 12:46) Social and cultural impact of cannabis in families
(13:52 - 18:55) The power of storytelling vs. clinical studies in changing perceptions
(19:30 - 20:55) Psychedelics as a cultural tool: structured rites of passage in society
(21:12 - 23:36) Challenges in visually depicting psychedelic experiences in media
(24:49 - 27:41) Lex’s personal Ayahuasca experience in New York
(28:43 - 29:54) Traditional vs. modern Ayahuasca ceremonies
(30:45 - 33:37) "We are drugs" – the role of endogenous psychedelics in human experience
(34:30 - 38:48) Understanding the Endocannabinoid System and its role in homeostasis
(38:53 - 44:24) Lex’s favorite cannabinoids and their unique properties
(44:53 - 50:39) The benefits and science of CBD: anxiety, pain, neuroprotection & sleep
(50:48 - 53:40) Cannabis, autism, and groundbreaking cases of psychedelic therapy
(53:51 - 55:39) Lex’s work, books, and research contributions
If you would like to attend one of our Ayahuasca retreats, go to www.lawayra.com.
Find more about Lex Pelger at www.lexpelger.com and his Substack newsletter, Cannabinoids and the People. You can also follow his cannabinoid science updates at CVResearch.info.

From addiction to awakening with Austin West. Ayahuasca Podcast

In this episode of Ayahuasca Podcast, host Sam Believ (founder of www.lawayra.com) has a conversation with Austin West.
Austin West is a certified psychedelic medicine practitioner, microdosing philosopher, and founder of Entheo Holistics. He specializes in helping men forge a life of purpose, power, and authenticity through psychedelic healing and intentional microdosing.
We touch upon topics such as:
Austin’s story of addiction and transformation (01:06 - 05:48)
The impact of microdosing on his healing journey (04:55 - 05:48)
How trauma, especially father wounds, can lead to addiction (10:18 - 13:41)
Porn addiction, erectile dysfunction, and healing from it (14:47 - 22:42)
Synchronicities and the ‘creator mindset’ (26:07 - 31:57)
Ayahuasca revealing his suppressed grief and a life-changing message (36:56 - 42:38)
The fear of change and trusting the medicine process (42:38 - 47:22)
His microdosing company and its impact on mental health (47:32 - 52:22)
If you would like to attend one of our Ayahuasca retreats, go to www.lawayra.com.
Find more about Austin West and his work at IamAustinWest.com.

Interview with a Shaman at LaWayra. Taita Fernando, Nico and Crystal.

Very unique format podcast where one of the LaWayra Ayahuasca retreat guests is interviewing a shaman (Taita) Fernando. And one of the facilitators Nico is translating.
This should give you a good insight into the Shamans mind.

Sexual path to psychedelic states with Dr. Jenny Martin

In this episode of Ayahuasca Podcast, host Sam Believ (founder of www.lawayra.com) has a conversation with Dr. Jenny Martin.
Dr. Jenny Martin is a researcher and expert in the science of consciousness, biofields, and energy medicine. Her work explores the intersection of physics, ancient wisdom, and modern science, particularly focusing on torsion fields, the pineal gland, and how human consciousness interacts with unseen forces.
We touch upon topics of:
Torsion fields and their discovery by Russian scientists
Isaac Newton’s alchemical studies and search for an intelligent force
Mainstream science’s dismissal of torsion field physics
How accepting torsion fields would change modern medicine
The role of the biofield and energy medicine in healing
Dark matter, dark energy, and the balance of yin and yang
The CIA’s remote viewing program and its research into consciousness
Disinformation campaigns in media (e.g., Men Who Stare at Goats)
Claude Swanson’s work on life force energy and ancient Chinese Chi studies
Russia’s long-standing scientific research into energy fields
The pineal gland’s function as a transducer of external signals
How the pineal gland interacts with life force energy (Chi, Prana, Mana, etc.)
Ancient indigenous knowledge of the "invisible web" connecting life
Princeton University’s research on consciousness and global energy fields
The impact of collective human emotions on the energy field (e.g., 9/11 study)
How psychedelics like DMT amplify the biofield and alter perception
The "synchronized universe model" and dimensions existing in parallel
The pineal gland’s photoreceptors and their role in altered states of consciousness
How altered brainwave states (e.g., gamma) enable interdimensional perception
Why mainstream science resists studying the science of consciousness
The connection between sexual energy, life force energy, and psychedelic experiences
If you would like to attend one of our Ayahuasca retreats, go to www.lawayra.com.
Find more about Dr. Jenny Martin at www.drjennymartin.com.

Brandon Evans. From Tech CEO to running Ayahuasca retreats.

In this episode of Ayahuasca Podcast, host Sam Believ (founder of www.lawayra.com) has a conversation with Brendan Evans.
Brendan is the CEO and co-founder of One Heart, an organization dedicated to guiding leaders through transformative experiences that foster personal growth and elevate consciousness. Before founding One Heart, Brendan built two successful tech companies in New York but found that conventional success did not bring the fulfillment he anticipated, leading him to discover Ayahuasca and embark on a deeper path of self-discovery.
We touch upon topics such as:
Brendan’s journey from tech entrepreneur to Ayahuasca facilitator (00:43 - 03:45)
Challenges of misalignment and burnout in high-achievers (04:51 - 06:47)
How Ayahuasca helps leaders align with their true purpose (07:17 - 09:50)
The importance of integration and community in plant medicine work (11:16 - 13:42)
Choosing the right retreat and facilitators for a safe experience (14:24 - 17:13)
Common misconceptions about Ayahuasca, such as purging and major life changes (45:57 - 49:14)
Brendan’s thoughts on spirituality, karma, and what happens after death (38:44 - 41:29)
Running an Ayahuasca retreat: challenges and rewards (20:29 - 25:41)
Advice for aspiring retreat facilitators (21:01 - 22:57)
If you would like to attend one of our Ayahuasca retreats, go to www.lawayra.com.
Find more about Brendan Evans at oneheart.com and on Instagram at @oneheartjourneys and @brandonevans.

Lauren Taus - Emotional eating and Ayahuasca

In this episode of Ayahuasca Podcast, host Sam Believ (founder of www.lawayra.com) has a conversation with Lauren Taus, a licensed clinical therapist specializing in addiction and trauma treatment. Lauren is licensed in both New York and California and integrates alternative treatment modalities such as trauma-sensitive yoga and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy into her practice. She is the founder of Embodied Life, a platform offering psychotherapy, psychedelic training, and retreats aimed at supporting personal transformation.
We touch upon topics such as:
Lauren’s journey into psychedelics and healing (00:40 - 03:40)
The importance of knowing the source of Ayahuasca (05:43 - 07:10)
Healing eating disorders with Ayahuasca (08:06 - 09:29)
The role of integration in psychedelic work (12:12 - 13:37)
Morning routines and their impact on mental health (15:07 - 16:39)
Ayahuasca and grief processing (16:52 - 19:45)
Navigating intergenerational trauma with Ayahuasca (28:20 - 29:47)
The balance between Western medicine and plant medicine (39:02 - 42:51)
Facilitator responsibilities and Ayahuasca retreat safety (30:22 - 34:43)
The importance of community in healing (50:41 - 53:57)
Internal Family Systems therapy and psychedelics (54:22 - 57:29)
If you would like to attend one of our Ayahuasca retreats, go to www.lawayra.com.
Find more about Lauren Taus at www.embodiedlife.com, on Instagram at @lauren.taus or @embodiedlifetherapy.

Rebecca Hayden. From Iboga to Ayahuasca. Hypnosis and integration. Ayahuasca Podcast

In this episode of Ayahuasca Podcast, host Sam Believ (founder of www.lawayra.com) has a conversation with Rebecca Hayden. Rebecca is a hypnosis practitioner specializing in personal growth, self-discovery, and healing. She is the host of Ayahuasca Talks Podcast, where she explores the transformative power of Ayahuasca and other plant medicines, emphasizing self-love, authenticity, and integration.
We touch upon topics such as:
Rebecca’s journey from documentary filmmaking to shamanism and energy healing (00:47-03:00)
Her first encounters with plant medicines like Iboga and Ayahuasca (03:00-12:12)
How Rebecca used supplements to transition off antidepressants and empower herself (05:13-09:03)
The role of hypnosis in deepening integration and re-experiencing Ayahuasca’s lessons (17:28-20:55)
Integration lessons, including learning self-love and breaking unhealthy patterns (24:38-32:37)
Insights into Ayahuasca’s non-linear lessons and group healing dynamics (42:30-48:47)
Key elements for creating a meaningful documentary on Ayahuasca (52:25-56:27).
If you would like to attend one of our Ayahuasca retreats, go to www.lawayra.com.
Find more about Rebecca Hayden at www.rebeccahayden.com or connect via her podcast, Ayahuasca Talks.
 

JM Ryerson. Leadership and winning with Ayahuasca. Ayahuasca Podcast

In this episode of Ayahuasca Podcast, host Sam Believ (founder of www.lawayra.com) has a conversation with JM Ryerson, entrepreneur, author, and performance coach with over 20 years of experience. JM is the co-founder and CEO of Let's Go Win, an organization dedicated to improving leadership, company culture, and peak performance. He is also the author of Let’s Go Win: The Keys to Living Your Best Life and host of the Let’s Go Win Podcast.
We touch upon topics of:
[01:22] Personal development and the inspiration behind Let's Go Win
[03:15] The impact of studying abroad and embracing cultural diversity
[05:40] JM’s journey with Ayahuasca and how it changed his life
[08:48] Synchronicities, spiritual growth, and the role of numerology
[15:01] Overcoming failure and embracing faith
[17:50] Tools for self-development, including breathwork and meditation
[25:51] JM’s challenging yet transformative Ayahuasca experiences
[34:36] The idea of Ayahuasca retreats for team-building and corporate growth
[36:34] Cultivating a growth mindset and unlocking potential
[43:28] JM’s books and how they can help individuals and businesses thrive
[46:04] The importance of vulnerability in leadership and personal growth
If you would like to attend one of our Ayahuasca retreats, go to www.lawayra.com.
Find more about JM Ryerson at www.letsgowin.com.
 

Don't be afraid to uncover childhood trauma. Ayahuasca Podcasts with Jillian Acosta

In this episode of Ayahuasca Podcast, host Sam Believ (founder of www.lawayra.com) has a conversation with Jillian Acosta, a registered dietitian and licensed dietitian nutritionist specializing in functional medicine and the psychology of eating. Jillian is the founder of The Root Cause Method, where she helps clients achieve health and vitality by addressing trauma, often integrating ketamine therapy to transform relationships with food and emotions.
We touch upon topics including:
(00:58) Jillian’s personal journey with eating disorders and emotional eating.
(02:21) How ayahuasca revealed the root of her trauma.
(04:09) Her early ayahuasca experiences and integration challenges.
(08:45) Rebuilding her life after ayahuasca, including leaving her marriage and launching her business.
(12:59) The connection between trauma, eating disorders, and chronic illness.
(17:39) Jillian’s perspective on emotional and energetic weight.
(27:41) Guidance on processing trauma and reconnecting with the body.
(39:08) Comparing ayahuasca and ketamine as therapeutic tools.
(45:49) The gut-brain connection and its role in mental health.
(48:24) The spiritual aspect of healing and gratitude for past experiences.
If you would like to attend one of our Ayahuasca retreats, go to www.lawayra.com.
Find more about Jillian Acosta at therootcausemethod.com or on Instagram at @jillianacosta._.rd.