Modern Enlightenment by Ceremonia

What happens when science meets spirituality? Dr. Anna Yusim, an internationally recognized, award-winning Psychiatrist, Executive Coach, Bestseller Author, and Co-Founder of the forthcoming Yale Mental Health and Spirituality Center, takes us on her journey from a strictly scientific worldview to embracing the transformative power of psychedelics and spiritual practices. She opens up about her ex...

Why are mental health struggles rising—even as life gets objectively easier? In this episode of Modern Enlightenment, Austin Mao sits down with Eric Edmeades – a globally recognized keynote speaker, prolific entrepreneur, and recognized authority inhealth, practical psychology, and behavioral transformation to explore why modern humans are more anxious, disconnected, and emotionally unwell than ev...

Most leaders spend years chasing goals—until one day, they realize they’ve lost touch with why they were chasing them in the first place. That’s where this conversation with Dr. Stefan Frädrich and Pia Isabel Rössle-Frädrich gets really interesting. They’ve been guiding entrepreneurs and changemakers through deeply personal, often psychedeli (c-fueled journeys to help them reconnect with what real...

In this enlightening episode, Joe Nucci and I sit down to explore the deep connections between psychology, spirituality, and personal growth. Joe shares profound insights on how our belief systems shape who we become , why it’s crucial to look into how past trauma affects you in the present, and the power of mindset in navigating life’s challenges. We also dive into the importance of authenticity...

MDMA-assisted therapy is making waves, and it’s not just hype—there’s real science and real stories behind it. In this episode, we sit down with Rachel Nuwer, a brilliant Freelance Science Journalist and Author of ‘ I Feel Love: MDMA and the Quest for Connection in a Fractured World ,’ and talk about how this treatment is changing lives and healing wounds. We dig into everything—from the challenge...

Psychedelics have come a long way—from underground parties to legit medicine—and Shaahin Cheyene has been in the thick of it for decades. He created Herbal Ecstasy inthe ‘90s, built a billion-dollar business, and rubbed shoulders with legends like Terence McKenna. But beyond the hype and controversy, what’s the real potential of these substances? Shaahin and I get into the evolution of psychedelic...

In this special episode of Modern Enlightenment, Austin Mao of Ceremonia sits down with Matias De Stefano and Robert Edward Grant for a thought-provoking discussion on the profound impact of psychedelics when used in a ceremonial setting. Recorded in Antarctica, this conversation explores how psychedelics—when approached with intention, structure, and reverence—can serve as powerful tools for psyc...

The Iboga plant isn’t just a sacred medicine—it’s a way of life for the people of Gabon, tied to healing, spiritual growth, and community. In this episode, Stéphane Lasme, former NBA player and proud Gabon native, shares his powerful connection to this ancient plant. He talks about how Iboga shaped his journey from childhood to adulthood, helping him find purpose and healing along the way. If you’...

Psychedelics are changing the way we think about healing and mental health. Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, the Ralph Metzner Distinguished Professor in Neurology and Psychiatry at UCSF and Founder of the Carhart-Harris Lab, and one of the most respected researchers in the field, shares fascinating insights from decades of groundbreaking studies—and his own personal experiences. From exploring how psilo...

What if science and ancient wisdom could team up to help you heal and feel more connected to yourself? Dr. David Rabin, Psychiatrist, Neuroscientist, and Co-Founder & Chief Medical Officer of Apollo Neuroscience, gets into how we can use psychedelics, neuroscience, and even wearable tech to unlock emotional safety and healing. From his childhood curiosity about dreams to helping trauma survivo...

Have you ever had a moment where your mind just couldn’t make sense of things anymore, and you knew there had to be something more? That’s where Jayne Warrilow, Founder of Sacred Changemakers, found herself—completely disconnected from her body and caught in the grind of the corporate world. Her experience with plant medicine became the wake-up call she didn’t know she needed, guiding her back to...

Psychedelic research is making waves, and it’s fascinating how it’s reshaping our understanding of memory, trauma, and healing. In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Manoj Doss, a Cognitive Neuropsychopharmacologist from the University of Texas, Austin. He took us on his personal journey—from a life-changing concussion that shifted his path from engineering to exploring the mind wi...

The essence of true intimacy goes beyond what most of us imagine—it’s more than just physical connection; it’s about being truly seen and understood. Rachel Pringle Urb and Johann Urb, Founders of The Pyramid Breath Method and The Art of Co-Devotional Love, open up about their own relationship, showing how vulnerability and authenticity have brought them closer than ever. They share what it’s like...

In a world driven by competition and self-gain, the fusion of spirituality and entrepreneurship offers a refreshing path to success. Vishen Lakhiani, Founder of Mindvalley and Best-Selling Author, embodies this balance, using his intuitive abilities to not only grow a business but to elevate humanity. His personal journey from a broke spiritual teacher to a global leader in personal growth showcas...

When the path to healing hits a roadblock, what’s the next move? Rick Doblin, Founder and President of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), takes us on a journey through the challenges and triumphs of bringing MDMA-assisted therapy closer to FDA approval. In this episode, learn about the resilience needed to overcome setbacks in the world of psychedelic therapy and the...

Imagine unlocking a brighter, more enlightened existence through the transformative power of psychedelics. In this latest episode, David Bronner, the Cosmic Engagement Officer of Dr. Bronner's soap, reveals his profound journey with these powerful substances. Discover how psychedelics shifted David's view from agnosticism to a deep realization of interconnectedness and unity consciousness. David’s...

Ever wondered what it's like to meet God on a psychedelic trip? Zach Leary, a Psychonaut, Psychedelic Facilitator, Integration Coach, Podcaster, and Writer shares his remarkable journey from a teenage LSD experience to becoming a leading voice in the psychedelic movement. Get ready to delve into the transformative power of psychedelics for the mind, body, and spirit, and learn how these experience...

In the heart of every leaf, in the dance of every butterfly, lies a story untold yet deeply felt. Have you ever wondered how deeply we can connect with nature and the transformative power it holds? Louie Schwartzberg, an award-winning Director, Cinematographer, Producer, and the visionary behind Fantastic Fungi and Gratitude Revealed, takes us on a journey exploring the profound effects of psyched...

Mushrooms have been used for centuries in various cultures for their healing and transformative properties. Unveil the profound impact of mushrooms on personal growth and spiritual connection as we journey with Allison Shaper, Founder of Super Mush. From ceremonial macrodosing to daily neuroplasticity through microdosing, Allison's story illuminates the transformative power of psychedelics. Di...

Imagine transforming your life by embracing self-love and unleashing your creative potential. Adam Roa, a multi-talented Artist, Poet, and Creator, shares his journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth through creativity. Discover how Adam integrates his inner artist with his entrepreneurial spirit to foster personal and spiritual development. This episode is packed with insights on the power...

Sexuality and spirituality are two deeply interconnected aspects of human existence that are often overlooked or misunderstood. In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Cat Meyer, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Licensed Sex and Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapist, unveils the transformative potential of psychedelics for the mind, body, and spirit, exploring the intricate relationship...

Ever wondered how the intersection of science and soul can unlock your true potential? Tune into this captivating episode of Modern Enlightenment, where Shawn Wells, a globally acclaimed expert in nutritional biochemistry, shares his personal journey of healing and self-discovery through plant medicine experiences like ketamine and psilocybin and the transformative potential of psychedelics for th...

Introducing "Modern Enlightenment," the podcast where modern science meets ancient wisdom to enhance well-being and accelerate personal growth. In a world where science and spirituality converge, hosts Austin Mao and Chuchu Wang, co-founders of Ceremonia, explore how integrating neuroscience, mindfulness, psychedelics, and more can transform mental, physical, and spiritual health. On thi...