Love, Loss & Hallucinations with Scott Schumaker

How did a driven, world-record holding, 30-something overachiever who has swum the English Channel learn to embrace vulnerability, hire a matchmaker and find her soul mate? In this episode, Melissa Blaustein—the youngest mayor in Sausalito’s history, a global policy advocate, and open water swimmer— shares her deeply personal journey of “breaking open,” and how that helped her find true, authentic love. She opens up about confronting childhood wounds and imposter syndrome, hallucinating Olympic athletes during long swims, and discovering the power of community in both the water and politics. Melissa breaks down the importance of honest communication, spiritual growth, and embracing discomfort as the pathway to fulfillment. This episode is about the profound transformation that happens when you let go of perfection, shed the need to constantly achieve, and lean into the vulnerability that makes us human. 
Whether you’re battling self-doubt, seeking courage to love again, or craving real community, Melissa’s truth will stir your soul and challenge your perspective. 
MELISSA'S LINKS:Instagram | TikTok | Calling in "The One" by Katherine Woodard Thomas 
SCOTT’S LINKS: Monday Meditation newsletter | Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 
 

Prepare to have your thinking around drugs and drug policy challenged! Uncover the radical truth about drugs, harm reduction, and the power of compassion in this electrifying conversation with drug policy pioneer Ethan Nadelmann, whom Rolling Stone magazine once dubbed “the real drug czar.” Forget the fear-mongering and outdated myths, Ethan shares what you really need to know about how science, empathy, and smart policies can transform society. He boldly reveals how decades of prohibition, racism and xenophobia, and ill-guided policies have fueled harm and been an economic drain on society. In addition, he recounts compelling stories of hope that will shift your perspective about “the war on drugs”. This episode will give you plenty of food for thought!
You'll discover:👉Why the war on drugs has caused more harm than good—costly, ineffective, and rooted in racist fears.👉The groundbreaking, cost-effective solutions like needle exchanges, overdose centers, and medical marijuana that save lives and money.👉How altered states through psychedelics have helped him and others heal trauma, deepen love, and foster empathy across divides that once seemed insurmountable.👉The transformative power of compassion, responsibility, and understanding—whether amid a courtroom, a community, or on the international stage.👉This episode is a rallying cry for anyone fed up with the injustice of the drug war, and an urgent call to reimagine policies based on science and human rights. Ethan isn’t just talking—he’s demonstrating how a coalition of love, truth, and bold action can change the world.
Perfect for activists, policymakers, or anyone yearning for a more compassionate, effective approach to drugs and human connection. Ready to rethink your stance? Hit play.
ETHAN'S LINKS:Psychoactive podcast | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn
SCOTT’S LINKS: Monday Meditation newsletter | Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 

Feel stuck? Lost in the chaos of modern life? Want to witness Scott receiving a round of hapé up his nose? Nicho Nutu, a Shipibo healer and musician, reveals the profound lessons plants and sacred ceremonies have gifted him — lessons that can transform your relationships, your clarity, and your soul. 
From the depths of the Amazon to Northern California’s forests, Nicho shares how ayahuasca, specific plant diets (psychedelic and non-psychedelic), and the power of sound revealed to him to a love so wide that it heals old wounds and connects us all to the divine. You'll discover how these medicines teach forgiveness, compassion, and humility — and how you, too, can tap into this limitless source of love without ever leaving home or taking a psychedelic. 
In this episode:👉Nicho shares how he found his calling in the Amazon, starting from curiosity and snake fascination to becoming a traditional healer.👉Nicho’s journey from a skeptic who grew up in Massachusetts to a revered maestro with a sacred mission—how plants transformed his entire life perspective.👉Nicho gives Scott the mystical experience of hapé and an icaro live on camera👉The dieta ritual: what it is, how long it lasts, and why it’s essential for opening your connection to plants and their teachings.👉The power of icaro songs, and how Nicho’s voice became a vessel for healing—who knew singing could be so sacred?👉The role of non-hallucinogenic plants like tobacco, rose, tulsi and Chiric Sinango in trauma, forgiveness, love and strengthening spirit.👉Why love and compassion are the true lessons plants have to teach us and how they help us navigate loss and grief with grace.
NICHO'S LINKS:
Website 
SCOTT’S LINKS: Monday Meditation newsletter | Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 

If you’re like most people, you want to find lasting love and true connection. Ellen Boeder, a passionate psychotherapist and relationship expert, shares insights gained over two decades of study, practice, and life experience on how we can cultivate long-term bonds that thrive through life's inevitable ups and downs. This episode dives into the art of repair after conflict, the importance of mutual co-creation in a relationship, and how self-awareness fuels what Boeder has coined “relational longevity.”
Why does this matter? Because the research is clear: the quality of your relationships in midlife shapes your health, happiness, and vitality in old age, and fostering a caring, authentic, deep relationship with your partner takes time, often years. So, starting to develop these skills in your younger years will pay big dividends. Neglecting this part of life is like skipping routine maintenance on your health—risky and costly. But by embedding simple, intentional practices today, you unlock a lifetime of joy, resilience, and growth with those who matter most.
In this episode:👉Ellen reveals what relational longevity means and why it’s vital for our health.👉The science linking midlife relationship quality to overall well-being in old age.👉How to develop the skills to repair ruptures and build trust after conflicts.👉Why self-reflection is the cornerstone of healthier relationships.👉The differences and similarities in co-creating with partners versus children.👉Exploring the impact of attachment styles on relationship sustainability.👉The power of daily small acts, like greeting each other, in creating ongoing connection.👉Balancing masculine and feminine energies in partnership.👉Practical steps to align your relationship goals and increase mutual satisfaction.👉How societal narratives influence our roles and our long-term relational growth.
ELLEN'S LINKS:Website | Substack | Instagram | The Couples Podcast - Attachment | Masculine & Feminine
SCOTT’S LINKS: Monday Meditation newsletter | Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 

In this episode, we get deep. We laugh. There are tears. 
I’m joined by Tiffany Shlain, a pioneer in tech, a documentary filmmaker and an artist. In a disconnect, chaotic world, Tiffany has fought to stay connected. The positive sides of tech still excite her, but she has learned how to shut off the digital invasion in ways that benefit her marriage, her family and friends, and her creativity. She recounts how these boundaries have helped foster her transformative art that interweaves feminism, neuroscience, and nature, leading to her current exhibition with her husband, Ken Goldberg, titled Ancient Wisdom for a Future Ecology: Trees, Time and Technology. 
Tiffany’s raw honesty about deepening her 30-year relationship with her husband, the death of her father, battling depression, creating art and finding hope despite the state of will inspire you. This episode isn’t just a story. It’s a blueprint to living more mindfully, loving more deeply, and creating a legacy rooted in truth and connection. 
You'll discover:👉How her groundbreaking work launching the Webby Awards launched her into the wild west of technology.👉The profound impact of her weekly “tech Shabbat”👉The art of navigating love and loss: from losing her father to healing through creative expression.👉Why she now leads with “attention” as the greatest gift in relationships.👉Her fascinating projects merging neuroscience, nature and feminist history.
TIFFANY'S LINKS:Website |Ancient Wisdom for a Future Ecology: Trees, Time and Technology | Instagram
SCOTT’S LINKS: Monday Meditation newsletter | Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 
 
 

Join Scott in a profound conversation with Ofosu Jones-Quartey, aka Born I, a meditation teacher, hip hop artist, and author, as they explore the intersection of music, mindfulness, and radical self-compassion. From the streets of Washington D.C. and his Ghana roots to discovering dharma on a Greyhound bus, Ofosu’s journey through hip hop, Buddhism, and mental health challenges offers transformative insights into interconnectedness, healing, and authentic self-expression. Ofosu shares raw, deeply human stories of growth, loss, and love—showing that liberation comes when we accept ourselves fully, shadows and all. This episode is perfect for seekers, artists, mental health warriors, and anyone courageous enough to look within.
You’ll discover: 👉 how an ancient Buddhist text, the Heart Sutra, illuminated his path during a bus ride and transformed his worldview👉 Using music as a tool for healing and social change👉 Navigating mental health challenges, including OCD, with grace and resilience👉 The importance of inner friendship and simple daily practices for well-being👉 how hip hop, rebellion, and spirituality collide to create a new kind of mindfulness 👉 why embracing your fallibility, not denying it, is a key to living with courage, love, and authenticity. 
OFOSU/BORN I's LINKS:Website | Instagram | Ayanna video | Komorebi album 
SCOTT’S LINKS: Monday Meditation newsletter | Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 
 

In this animated conversation, Melanie Spring, a fierce muse and seasoned healer, and I look at radical truths around love, self-identity and transformation. Melanie explodes the myth that you need to be perfect or have your act together to thrive. Instead, she shows you the power in owning your stuff, embracing your wildness, and continually evolving.
Melanie shares her unapologetic journey from perfectionism to sovereignty, and from inherited trauma to radical honesty. She reveals how psychedelics cracked her open to new realms of healing. This is not woo-woo—it’s real, raw, and transformative. She also dives into her no-nonsense approach to boundaries, money, love, and self-expression—reminding us all that true power lies in owning your shadow and stepping into your wild, sovereign self. If you’re ready to tear down inner walls and radically love yourself, then this episode is the spark you need.
In this episode:👉Melanie’s unique take on coaching vs muse—guiding inward, not fixing outward👉The radical roots of her core values: love, honesty, accountability, collaboration, creativity👉Raw stories of her putting her marriage on pause, psychedelics, and deep healing👉The power of boundaries, sovereignty, and owning your truth in love and life👉How vulnerability is the greatest gift for growth and authentic connection👉Practical steps to ask for mentorship without money, finding your village👉Lessons from her “identity detox” and the importance of loving yourself fully👉The reframe: “Own your stuff” — the ultimate act of freedom
(This content is for educational and harm-reduction purposes. We do not promote or support illegal activity, the sale or use of restricted substances, or the use of associated tools or accessories. Not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for health decisions.)
MELANIE'S LINKS:Website | Instagram
SCOTT’S LINKS: Monday Meditation newsletter | Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 
 

In this episode, Scott Tinley, a friend and competitor from my former life as a professional triathlete, joins me for an in-depth discussion on handling big life transitions. A Hawaii Ironman world champion with over 100 triathlon wins under his belt, Tinley’s own challenges after he stopped racing led him into the academic world, where he’s become an expert on navigating the elite-athlete-to-normal-life shift, lessons from which we can all benefit. We discuss the emotional challenges of transitioning from sports, the importance of mental health, and the lessons learned through personal experiences, including his recent heart surgery. He emphasizes the significance of appreciation, mourning, and planning for life after sports, while also encouraging his students to adventure and find their own identities after athletics or school. We also share some classic, funny stories from back in our racing days and beyond. 
We get into:👉Tinley reflecting on his early experiences in triathlon and the growth of the sport.👉The transition from professional athlete can be challenging and requires self-reflection.👉Mental health awareness in sports has improved since the late 90s, but challenges remain.👉Mourning the end of an athletic career is essential for a healthy transition.👉Planning for life after sports is crucial, yet it is contradictory to athletes’ necessary focus.👉Gratitude for past experiences can enhance one's perspective on life.👉Realizations about retirement can come from unexpected moments, such as nature.👉Rehab is a process everyone goes through, not just those with substance issues.👉Loss can lead to wisdom and personal growth in various aspects of life.👉Validation through athletic success can shape one's identity and purpose.
SCOTT TINLEY'S LINKS:Website | Facebook | Rehab: Collected Stories and Essays on Resolution, Resiliency, and Return - 
SCOTT’S LINKS: Monday Meditation newsletter | Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 
 

Dive deep into the raw, heart-centered world of being a death doula, and the wisdom that comes from this profession. Lauren Carroll, a death educator whose passion for home funerals is infectious, shares the touching journey she took to becoming a death doula. We also discuss how the commercialized funeral industry has squashed sacred practices around our deceased loved ones. Also, the how and why she began incorporating plant medicine into her end-of-life care is insightful. And she highlights important, revelatory information about caring for a body after a person has passed, plus so much more. Death is inevitable, but beauty, love and transformation can be experienced around the end of life if we allow ourselves to be open to it. This episode will help you navigate it all with more reverence, knowledge and grace. 
In this episode:👉 Lauren’s powerful story of encountering a stillborn baby and how it shifted her fear of death.👉 The history and importance of home funerals and how the modern industrial funeral business has separated us from this sacred act👉 The role of death doulas and how they restore human connection at life's final chapter👉 The healing potential of plant medicine, especially psilocybin, in facing death and grief👉 How meaningful rituals and a longer presence with the deceased transform grief into love, acceptance, and healing for those still alive. 👉 The legal, cultural, and emotional aspects of choosing natural death care practices👉 Practical tips for hybrid funeral arrangements and the importance of personal stories in legacy
LAUREN'S LINKS:LA MORT | Instagram
Mice / plant medicine study 
SCOTT’S LINKS: Monday Meditation newsletter | Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 

Prepare to dive deep into healing and personal growth as Maestro Hamilton Souther and I discuss the soul of ayahuasca and san pedro (wachuma), shamanic wisdom, and the transformative power of nature and plant medicines. Souther, a pioneer in the psychedelic renaissance and founder of Blue Morpho, shares truths that could change how you see life, loss, ego and healing. He also reveals behind-the-scenes stories of his own initiation into these sacred traditions, and powerful lessons he has gleaned from thousands of visionary journeys. In this episode:
👉The origins and purpose of ayahuasca, and why it’s a game-changer for healing👉Insights on loss, impermanence, and the eternal nature of our spirit👉The difference between shamans, maestros, and spiritual guides 👉How visionary experiences redefine reality and serve as powerful healing tools👉The intense training and ego dissolving journey to become a trusted ceremonial leader👉Insights on loss, impermanence, and the eternal nature of our spirit👉The profound connection between humans and nature — you are not out of place👉How San Pedro and other plants assist in grounding, healing, and expanding consciousness👉Practical tips for choosing a safe, reputable ceremony center overseas or at home👉The future plans for Blue Morpho and plant medicine in the West👉A fascinating insight into AI, technological evolution, and what visions reveal about our collective future👉The importance of love, gratitude, and embracing life’s miraculous miracle
HAMILTON’S LINKS:Blue Morpho website 
SCOTT’S LINKS: Monday Meditation newsletter | Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)”