JRE #470 - Amber Lyon

3/18/2014

This podcast features Emmy Award-Winning journalist Amber Lyon, who discusses her independent journalism site, Reset.me, covering psychedelics, natural medicines, and alternative therapies. Lyon delves into her personal experiences with these substances, their potential for healing, and the controversy surrounding their legality. The podcast explores themes of personal transformation, the limitations of traditional medicine, the power of skepticism, and the importance of personal exploration.

Major Topics

1. The 2012 Paradigm Shift

Lyon believes 2012 was a symbolic year for a shift in consciousness, marked by the NSA revelations and the growing awareness of government surveillance.
She argues that younger generations, raised with the internet, have a different perspective on information and are less susceptible to propaganda.
The ease of accessing information through Google allows for quick fact-checking and reduces the spread of misinformation.
Lyon suggests that the world is in a “wait, what?” moment, where people are questioning established systems and seeking alternative perspectives.

2. The Role of Psychedelics in Healing

Lyon’s journey with psychedelics began after a conversation with Rogan on a previous podcast, prompting her to explore their potential.
She recounts her own transformative Ayahuasca experience, which helped her process trauma and anxiety.
She believes psychedelics facilitate introspection and allow individuals to confront deep-seated issues, potentially overcoming trauma and mental health disorders.
Lyon emphasizes the importance of setting and intent in psychedelic experiences, highlighting the potential for negative experiences if individuals are unprepared or resistant.

3. The Legal Status of Psychedelics and the War on Drugs

Lyon criticizes the legal classification of psychedelics as Schedule 1 drugs, arguing that it hinders research and prevents individuals from accessing potentially life-changing therapies.
She points to the hypocrisy of legalizing marijuana while keeping psychedelics illegal, suggesting that the war on drugs is more about control and profit than public safety.
Lyon highlights the growing body of scientific research that supports the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics, particularly for conditions like PTSD and addiction.
She believes that legalizing psychedelics is a crucial step towards addressing the mental health crisis facing society.

4. The Ayahuasca Experience and Shamanic Practices

Lyon recounts her journey to the Amazon jungle, where she participated in traditional Ayahuasca ceremonies.
She describes the physical and psychological effects of Ayahuasca, including intense vomiting and purging, which are considered a part of the healing process.
Lyon highlights the importance of choosing a reputable shaman, emphasizing the potential for negative experiences with individuals who lack the proper training or intent.
She discusses the role of the shaman in guiding individuals through the Ayahuasca experience, emphasizing the importance of trust and safety.

5. The Potential of Psilocybin and the Stone Ape Theory

Lyon believes psilocybin mushrooms have tremendous healing potential and should be legalized.
She discusses the scientific research supporting psilocybin’s ability to address mental health issues and even promote neurogenesis.
Lyon references Terence McKenna’s Stone Ape Theory, which suggests that psilocybin played a role in the evolution of the human brain and the development of language.
She argues that the widespread prohibition of psychedelics represents a loss of connection to our evolutionary roots and a potential for healing.

6. The Connection Between Psychedelics and Spirituality

Lyon believes that psychedelics can facilitate profound spiritual experiences, leading to a deeper understanding of consciousness and the nature of reality.
She shares her own experiences with a sense of interconnectedness and a realization of the insignificance of earthly concerns in the face of a vast universe.
Lyon discusses the potential for psychedelics to bridge the gap between science and spirituality, offering a new perspective on the human experience.
She believes that the widespread suppression of psychedelics has hindered our understanding of spirituality and contributed to our collective sense of alienation from the natural world.

7. The Impact of Psychedelics on Society

Lyon believes that widespread access to psychedelics could have a profound impact on society, leading to increased empathy, compassion, and a sense of interconnectedness.
She argues that these substances can help individuals break free from limiting beliefs and embrace a more holistic perspective on life.
Lyon suggests that psychedelics could play a role in addressing the root causes of conflict and violence, fostering a more peaceful and harmonious society.
She emphasizes the need for education and responsible use, ensuring that psychedelics are utilized in a safe and therapeutic manner.

8. The Dangers of Shamans and The Importance of Safe Practices

Lyon emphasizes the importance of choosing a reputable shaman, warning against individuals who might exploit others for financial gain or engage in inappropriate behavior.
She recounts her own experience with a shaman who sexually assaulted her during a ceremony, highlighting the risks associated with seeking out these experiences without proper guidance.
Lyon stresses the importance of research and due diligence when choosing a shaman or a psychedelic retreat center.
She believes that the psychedelic community should prioritize safety and ethical practices, ensuring that these experiences are used responsibly for healing and personal growth.

9. The Importance of Personal Exploration and the Shift in Consciousness

Lyon encourages listeners to explore their own beliefs and challenge conventional thinking, embracing a spirit of open-mindedness and questioning.
She believes that individuals can access profound insights and experiences through introspection, meditation, and other practices, even without using psychedelics.
Lyon emphasizes the need for personal responsibility and the importance of recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing.
She believes that the collective shift in consciousness is underway and that individuals can play a role in shaping a more compassionate and informed future.

10. The Role of Skepticism and the Importance of Evidence

Lyon acknowledges the importance of skepticism and encourages critical thinking in the face of extraordinary claims.
She emphasizes the need for evidence-based approaches to understanding psychedelics and other alternative therapies, recognizing that not all claims are valid.
Lyon encourages listeners to research different perspectives and evaluate information objectively, using a combination of scientific studies, personal experiences, and cultural traditions.
She believes that healthy skepticism can lead to deeper understanding and a more informed approach to personal exploration.

11. The Role of the Media in Shaping Public Perception

Lyon shares her experience as a journalist at CNN, revealing the pressures and biases that can influence news coverage.
She criticizes the media’s portrayal of psychedelics as dangerous and harmful, contributing to the stigma and misinformation surrounding these substances.
Lyon argues that independent journalism plays a crucial role in challenging dominant narratives and providing alternative perspectives.
She believes that a more nuanced and informed approach to media coverage is essential for fostering a more accurate understanding of psychedelics and their potential benefits.

12. The Future of Psychedelics and the Need for Open Dialogue

Lyon expresses optimism about the future of psychedelics, noting the growing awareness and acceptance of these substances.
She encourages listeners to engage in open and honest conversations about psychedelics, challenging the stigma and misinformation surrounding them.
Lyon believes that the legalization and responsible integration of psychedelics into society will have a profound impact on individual and collective well-being.
She emphasizes the need for ongoing research, education, and open dialogue to ensure that these substances are utilized for their therapeutic potential and for the betterment of humanity.

13. The Power of Personal Testimony and Sharing Experiences

Lyon believes that personal stories and testimonies play a vital role in breaking down stigma and inspiring others to explore new perspectives.
She encourages listeners to share their own experiences with psychedelics, recognizing that these stories can offer hope and guidance to others.
Lyon emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for open dialogue and sharing of experiences, fostering a sense of community and support.
She believes that by sharing our stories, we can challenge limiting beliefs, break down barriers, and contribute to a more informed and compassionate society.

14. The Importance of Connecting with Nature

Lyon argues that our disconnection from nature has contributed to our mental health crisis and a lack of understanding of our connection to the natural world.
She encourages listeners to spend time in nature, grounding themselves in the earth’s energy and reconnecting with their primal roots.
Lyon believes that this connection can foster a sense of peace, balance, and well-being, enhancing our understanding of ourselves and our place in the universe.
She suggests that our ancestors’ close connection to nature, often facilitated by the use of psychedelics, may hold valuable lessons for our modern world.

15. The Role of Ego and the Need for Humility

Lyon suggests that ego can be a barrier to personal growth and a hindrance to embracing new perspectives.
She highlights the importance of humility in recognizing the vastness of the universe and the limitations of our current understanding.
Lyon believes that psychedelics can help individuals transcend ego and embrace a more interconnected worldview, leading to a greater sense of peace and acceptance.
She encourages listeners to cultivate a sense of humility, recognizing that there is always more to learn and that our individual perspectives are limited.

16. The Importance of Trust and Community

Lyon emphasizes the importance of finding trusted individuals and communities to support personal exploration and healing.
She suggests that sharing experiences with others who have similar interests can foster a sense of belonging and shared understanding.
Lyon believes that creating safe and supportive spaces for open dialogue and exploration is essential for individual and collective growth.
She emphasizes the power of community in navigating challenging journeys and finding support during periods of uncertainty and transformation.

17. The Power of Hope and the Potential for Transformation

Lyon expresses a sense of hope for the future of humanity, believing that individuals have the potential for profound transformation and healing.
She encourages listeners to embrace a positive outlook and believe in the possibility of change, even in the face of challenging circumstances.
Lyon believes that psychedelics, coupled with personal responsibility and a commitment to growth, can play a role in creating a more compassionate and enlightened society.
She emphasizes the importance of staying connected to hope and believing in the possibility of a better future.

Memorable Quotes

“I just know even since the last time I did your podcast show, just how much awakening has happened across the country.”
“You you you just think that the only way to get money is by selling fucking pills that you make. What you’re doing is being a hater and you’re trying to hoard the market, you’re trying to control all the drugs. And there’s some good drugs out there that are pharmaceutical drugs, There’s just fantastic medications that have helped people with all sorts of ailments. But that doesn’t mean that you with your fantastic drugs that aid all these people should be able to stop natural things. Like, that’s crazy, and that’s where as a culture, we gotta put the brakes. We just it’s not saying that pharmaceutical companies are bad because they’re not. They’re great. Pharmaceutical companies have provided people with medications that have vastly improved their lives.”
“I feel like I’ve had a complete rebirth. And That’s your data. Yeah. It’s my data. I feel like it’s near I literally feel like my serotonergic system has been reached structured, and I find it nearly impossible to get anxiety. And this is coming from someone who used to have constant butterflies in my stomach, have near panic attacks.”
“I just feel like such a duty to deliver this message. And I know I’m taking a risk, and I know there’ll be some people who criticize me. They can’t, though. Carl Hart had a great point yesterday. I I keep bringing him up just because he’s awesome. But one of the things he said, he said, if I have the data, I’m I’ll I’ll debate anyone. I I have the data. And if I don’t have the data, you’re not gonna hear me talking about it. But if I have the data, the data’s on my side, I’m very confident.”
“I I just feel I I feel like it could help so many women, especially because, like I was saying earlier about them being so self critical, and and really just so many people who just haven’t taken the time to stand outside of their life and analyze it objectively.”

JRE #470 – Amber Lyon