Workshops, Panels, Demonstrations & Keynotes
ALL PARTS WELCOME: UTILIZING IFS PRE-JOURNEY
Sarah Siegal
This workshop will explore methods for utilizing the Internal Family Systems Model (IFS) before a psychedelic/ plant medicine session to foster a greater degree of trust with the medicine, address ambivalence or fear, and potentially influence more positive outcomes. Created by Dr. Richard Schwartz, IFS is a non-pathologizing approach to healing that sees the mind as being comprised of many sub personalities called “Parts”.
In addition to Parts, IFS believes that we have a fundamental essence called “Self-Energy” that cannot be harmed by anything we experience in this life, contains great wisdom, and knows how to heal. It offers a profoundly gentle and effective way of restoring harmony to one’s inner world and works synergistically with psychedelics both before, during and after a medicine session.
ANIMIST HERBALISM
Sean Padraig O'Donoghue
When we think of herbal medicine we often speak of “using” plants to improve our health and our lives. But to listen deeply to plants is to know that they are alive and speaking to us. What does herbalism look like when we acknowledge that fact, and when we approach plants as other intelligences working together with our own to accomplish healing? We will look at the foundational principles and practices of animist herbalism.
BREATH & BEYOND- BREATHWORK JOURNEY FOR INTEGRATION, EXPANDED CONSCIOUSNESS, & CONNECTION
Tania Zuckerman
Our breath connects us to the universal pulse of life and all living things. Everything breathes—and when we focus on our breath, we remember our inherent connection and belonging in this world.
Examples within and around us in the natural world are abundant in demonstrating this connectivity- especially through the mycelial network. Accessing our own felt sense of connection is what some “seekers” long for in exploring of expanded states of consciousness.
EVERYDAY JAMAICAN MEDICINAL PLANTS & FUNGI
Lindsay Chimileski
A great deal of our materia medica come from exotic locations. Jamaica is a powerful island, packed with positive vibrations and medicinal plants. Many of our most potent medicines grow and have traditional uses in Jamaica. We will go through the Jamaican materia medica and discuss the clinical uses, mechanisms of action, constituents we care about and research, as well as the Jamaican roots and bush medicine. Potent medicines including Jamaican Dogwood, Soursop, unique Smilax species, Pimento, Quassia, Achyranthes, Spanish Needle, Sorrel Hibiscus, Leaf of Life, Bitter Melon, Guinea Hen Weed, Phyllathus, Cow Tongue Fern and more will be reviewed. We will discuss medicinal mushroom use in Jamaica as well. We will connect the overlapping uses of these jamaican herbal heroes in traditional chinese medicine, ayurveda, western herbalism, eclectic medicine and jamaican bush medicine.
EXPLORING SEX, PSYCHEDELICS, AND NEURODIVERSITY
Cheryl DeLoren
In this workshop, we will explore the intersection of psychedelics, sex, and neurodiversity, offering a unique perspective on how these elements interact. We] will delve into the potential benefits of psychedelics as a therapeutic tool, particularly in the context of couples counseling and sex therapy. Special attention will be given to how psychedelics can help neurodiverse individuals and couples break through barriers related to intimacy, communication, and emotional connection.
FOOD IS MEDICINE
Maleine Gargurevich
Evidence has shown that a Raw Foods Lifestyle (RLF) can have a positive impact on the body due to the high volume of chlorophyll intake. In fact many individuals that attended Dr. Anne Wigmore’s clinics in Boston or Puerto Rico healed from stage four cancer along with various other ailments or dis-eases.
KETAMINE-ASSISTED THERAPY IN PRIVATE PRACTICE
Rachael O'Donnell
Ketamine-assisted therapy (KAT) is becoming more widespread as a powerful tool for treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Because it is an emerging field, clear guidelines and rules do not yet exist for how to build this treatment option into a clinical practice and most of the well known psychedelic training programs do not include specifics about building KAT into our work. This leaves many providers feeling uncertain about how to approach this work responsibly and effectively. In this workshop geared towards licensed mental health professionals, you will learn about how KAT specifically, and ketamine in general works to treat mental health conditions, and learn about the structural elements of adding this modality to your practice successfully. If you have been curious about adding KAT to your practice or just want to learn more about it, this workshop is for you.
MUSHROOM PHOTOGRAPHY
Alan Rockefeller
A presentation where I condense everything I have learned about mushroom photography in the past 20 years into an hour. The first half is relevant to everyone and covers cell phone photography and composition - the second half is more technical and teaches people how to take good mushroom photos with a mirrorless/dslr camera.
NEW DISCOVERIES IN THE TAXONOMY OF PSILOCYBIN MUSHROOMS & TRYPTAMINE FUNGI
Alan Rockefeller
A photographic tour of the rich diversity of psilocybin species in Canada, the US, and Mexico. Detailed profiles of new Psilocybe species, their micro & macro morphology and psychedelic properties. Insights into the fungal taxonomy of psilocybin-containing fungi including molecular and phylogenetic analyses reshaping our classification, conservation efforts and ethical considerations surrounding the use of psychedelic mushrooms in science and recreation.
PAPERMAKING WITH MUSHROOMS
Roberta Trentin
Mushrooms are an excellent alternative source for paper making. The workshop will start with a brief introduction to mushroom paper making and how it differs from cellulose-based paper. We will then learn different paper-making techniques and assemblages and dive into making postcard-size sheets. All materials included.
STORIES OF HOPE (VETERAN’S SHARE)-
Lena Ramsay, Travis Brown, Ceceli Corey,
This panel consists of 3 Military Veterans who have been through an enormous amount of trauma both in their military careers but also in life. They want to share their Incredible stories with you and offer hope. Each one will share their unique journeys in finding healing through plant medicines. They will reflect on how their own healing has had a positive effect on their friends and family. There will be a brief question and answer period at the end.
THE MENOPAUSE-MUSHROOM CONNECTION: HARNESSING THE POWER OF MUSHROOMS FOR SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS
Jennifer Rose
This session will offer an integrative approach to understanding perimenopause and menopause, focusing on how functional mushrooms and psychedelic mushrooms can be powerful allies in managing symptoms and enhancing quality of life.
VETERAN ADMINISTRATION TOP MEDICATIONS AND PSYCHEDELICS
Anthony D'Alelio
We will not be giving medical advice. We will be discussing the top 10-15 most widely used medications by veterans and how they may interact with psychedelics. We will also discuss how more and more veterans are turning to psychedelics and leaving the traditional approach to mental health behind.
ALL THINGS TURKEY TAIL
Lena Harvay
Turkey tail is not only a beautiful polypore mushroom but has many health benefits. Here you will learn how to identify them, collect them, and use them throughout the year. If collection is not possible, we will talk about how to find the best products on the market and the different ways to incorporate them in your diet. This can also be an important mushroom for your aging pet!
BIOLUMINESCENT AND FLUORESCENT FUNGI
Alan Rockefeller
Bioluminescent fungi glow in complete darkness, while fluorescent fungi appear to glow under ultraviolet light. Join Alan Rockefeller as he delves into the mesmerizing world of bioluminescent and fluorescent fungi. From their enchanting glow in the darkest of nights to their stunning fluorescence under ultraviolet light, these fungi are both beautiful and scientifically fascinating. Alan will showcase crowd-pleasing species from various corners of the world through his captivating photography. Gain insights into the art of locating and capturing these glowing wonders, and learn how you can contribute to documenting them through iNaturalist projects.
BWITI TRADITION – GOING BACK TO THE BEGINNING
Ryan Rich
In today’s world, we are becoming so disconnected from reality, each other, and nature too. We spend most of our time in and communicate through a virtual world. Existing in this state of multifarious dysconnectivity is having a huge impact on our mental health, our spiritual health, and also the environment. This talk draws on Bwiti teachings to pose the question — what if the solution has been here all along? What if we just have to go back to the beginning to find the truth that will set us free? The Bwiti tradition of Gabon, rooted in the ancestral knowledge of the Babongo people, offers a profound connection to nature's wisdom. The Babongo are humanity's oldest ancestors, and their spiritual tradition is probably one the first ever practiced. This simple but profound tradition is the perfect antidote to our modern confusion. While Western thought often emphasizes separation from and manipulation of the natural world, the Bwiti tradition holds a continuous and unbroken relationship with it. This talk will revive the profound truths that we never should have forgotten, offering a Bwiti-derived path back to wholeness and a deeper understanding of our place within the natural world.
FERMENTING FUNGIMENTALS: THE ABCs
Nicholas Repenning
In this workshop participants will learn the basics of using the Japanese fungus koji to explore the realms of flavor and fermentation. Koji is the cornerstone of Japanese food culture, and is responsible for foods such as miso, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sake. It contains a powerhouse of enzymes which when applied to edible substrates can breakdown foods to their simplest forms releasing flavors and nutrients, making them more readily available for digestion by humans and microbes alike. We will dive into how this power fungus has been utilized in traditional fermentations processes, and how to apply these same techniques to nontraditional substrates such as mushrooms.
IBOGA AND THE WEST
Ryan Rich
This workshop will interactively explore the fascinating journey of iboga, the ancient African plant medicine that is the sacrament of the Bwiti people, as it makes its way into the Western world. We'll begin by delving into the origins of Bwiti — one of the world's first spiritual traditions, which is practiced by the earliest plant medicine users — who first recognized iboga's profound healing potential thousands of years ago. We'll differentiate between iboga root bark, and ibogaine (its isolated alkaloid), emphasizing the importance of understanding its spiritual significance and traditional use and how these can contrast in many crucial contextual ways with modern western approaches. Tracing iboga's path from its African roots to the West, we'll draw out some of the complexities of cultural exchange, drawing parallels with the historical spread of Buddhism, and raising questions about cultural appropriation versus the respectful sharing of knowledge. While acknowledging iboga's potential to benefit people globally, we'll stress the importance of preserving the essence of Bwiti traditions. Finally, we'll discuss the crucial aspects of sustainability and reciprocity in working with iboga, ensuring its longevity and honoring the Bwiti communities who have been its stewards for centuries. We'll also touch on the dangers of colonial interpretations and language surrounding these sacred traditions — before opening the floor to a group discussion focused on fostering a deeper understanding of iboga's role in both traditional and contemporary healing contexts.
LET’S TALK CHAGA
Lena Harvay
Here we will talk about Chaga. We will identify exactly what Chaga is and how to find it. The best collection methods will be detailed along with specific instructions on the best way to get maximum health benefits when preparing for tea or tincture. You will learn why Chaga is being recognized for incredible health benefits. We will also discuss why Chaga can also be beneficial for pets! Pre-prepared chaga tea will be on hand to look at and sample.
MICRODOSING CANNABIS AND PSILOCYBIN FOR CHRONIC PAIN
Caitlin Bernhard and Jodi Chapman
Join Caitlin Bernhard, FNP and Jodi Chapin, RN of the Green Network Providers, in an exploration of how small, sub-perceptual doses of psilocybin and THC can be used to alleviate chronic pain while minimizing side effects associated with traditional medical treatments. We will discuss the mechanisms by which microdosing influences pain perception, including its effects on neuroplasticity, serotonin receptors, and the endocannabinoid system. Microdosing can also be used to reduce dependence on opioids or other pharmaceuticals as a complementary approach in pain management. Emerging research, anecdotal evidence, and case studies will be used to demonstrate efficacy, safety, and best practices. Attendees will learn the importance of guided use under medical supervision as well as practical considerations like dosing schedules and how to monitor for therapeutic outcomes.
MUSHROOM/WOMB MEDICINE AND FERTILITY FUNGI
Lindsay Chimileski
Fungi have been used throughout the ages for a variety of ailments, and enjoyments. Although they are beneficial for all bodies, in this lecture we will explore the ways they can be especially useful in the various stages of a woman’s life. Discussing traditional uses, new research and clinical applications of using mushroom medicine for optimizing fertility, PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, menopause, autoimmune conditions, fibromyalgia, gut issues and hormone dependent cancers. Psychedelic fungi should also be celebrated as powerful teachers and allies for women's health. With the right set and setting, they can aid in healing trauma, addiction, PTSD, anxiety, depression and releasing generational burdens.
It is time to empower and educate women about the role entheogenic mushrooms can play in mending their relationship with the womb space. Furthermore, we will discuss research showing the potential for psychedelic use to elevate the emotional literacy of all and support marginalized populations, potentially decreasing incidents of domestic and inner relational violence. Medicinal mushrooms improve quality of life. Fungi promote joy, vitality, movement, healthy complexion, connection, understanding and lasting cognitive benefits for a happier, more fulfilling life. Truly happy, healed humans will create healthier future generations.
OPENING INTO THE OMINOUS, LUMINOUS, VOLUMINOUS NUMINOUS
Dana Sawyer
In this interactive workshop, Sawyer offers thoughts and short adventures related to the unitive mystical experience often triggered by psychedelics. What do these experiences mean and how can we best integrate them into everyday life?
PSYCHOSIS OR SPIRITUAL
Laren Corrin
This presentation will explore the mental health risks and system pitfalls that are possible when working on evolving consciousness. Being labeled with psychosis is a potential risk when utilizing psychedelics, plants or spiritual practices. We will explore some history of the current dominant mental health system model, with a focus around experiences that could be labeled psychosis. Associated risks will be discussed.
We will take a look at the concept of psychosis including some cultural myths around it. We will also touch on alternative frameworks for experiences and the potential to recover. Many labeled with psychosis believe they are having spiritual experiences. The question of differentiating psychosis from spiritual experiences will round out our discussion time together.
AMANITA MUCARIA: THE DIVINE INEBRIENT:
Christian Rasmussen
Christian, the owner of MN Nice Botanicals, the largest Amanita muscaria importer and retailer in the country, will be presenting on Amanita muscaria's rich history and pharmacology, and the implications and potential of this most iconic mushroom.
BLUE LOTUS
Christian Rasmussen
Christian Rasmussen, the owner of MN Nice Botanicals, will be discussing his recent findings with Blue Lotus as the forgotten heart opener. Diving into the history and pharmacology of this iconic water lily, he'll discuss why it's an extremely powerful tool for meditation, and present evidence that helps support how and why microdosing Blue Lotus seems to lead to a greater capacity for love and compassion.
CAPTURING FUNGI: A 3-HOUR MUSHROOM PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
Alan Rockefeller
Join acclaimed mycologist and photographer Alan Rockefeller for an immersive hands-on workshop. Participants will learn how to maximize the potential of their equipment, whether it's a cell phone, DSLR, or mirrorless camera. He will guide attendees through the fundamental principles of composition, lighting, and macro photography specifically tailored towards fungi.Key topics include: tricks using a cell phone camera, composition techniques to showcase the textures, colors, and forms of fungi; utilizing macro lenses and focus stacking to capture intricate details and highlight the nuances of mushroom morphology; and tips for effective fieldwork, including taking photos and making collections for scientific study.
DECODING THE FOREST FLOOR: THE ART OF MUSHROOM RECOGNITION
Alan Rockefeller
Delve into the intricate details that allow you to figure out which mushroom you have found. Explore the key features, such as cap shape, gill arrangement, stem characteristics, texture, odor, taste and spore color which serve as the foundation for accurate identification. Learn how to observe and interpret these subtle yet essential details, transforming your ability to recognize different mushroom species.
INTENTIONS & IITEGRATION: WEAVING ENTHEOGETIC LESSONS INTO DAILY LIFE
Matt Thomson and Caitlin Bernhard
Change can be really uncomfortable. Practices such as breathwork, working with sacred plant medicines, and meditation can catalyze and support shifts, but how can we move into our authentic selves and maintain momentum from there?
LIONS MANE FOR MENTAL HEALTH
Lena Harvay
Lions Mane with or without psylocibin is showing promising results in mental health. Here we will discuss those benefits, go over the latest studies and identify how to incorporate them in our diet. We will learn how to identify this mushroom in nature and briefly go over how easy it is to grow. This is also a great mushroom to consider for your aging pets!
MUSHROOMS OF ECUADOR
Alan Rockefeller
Ecuador, a country with roughly the same area as the state of Colorado, is one of seventeen megadiverse countries of the world and sustains unique biodiversity within different forests, habitats and microhabitats. Ecuador is home to countless species yet to be discovered, particularly fungi new to science. Yet the fragility of these ecosystems and looming threats of destruction mean the clock is ticking for species documentation. In this talk, Alan Rockefeller showcases his favorite finds over three years of explorations in the upper Ecuadorian Amazon.
REISHI THE MUSHROOM OF IMMORTALITY
Lena Harvay
Here we will discuss how to find this polypore mushroom, best collection methods and how to prepare it for teas, tinctures, or powder. We will talk about its traditional Asian history in boosting immunity and overall health. We will have samples of Reishi Tea on hand to try.
WHERE DO I START? A VETERANS JOURNEY
Once you have decided to start your journey with psychedelics the next questions are where do I go? How do I get them? Is it safe? Who will help me? These are all very important questions to ask. We will talk about the important things to know and to ask as you begin.