Love, Loss & Hallucinations with Scott Schumaker

Ep14 - Jodi White, LPC: Is It Love or Love Addiction?

Are you addicted to an unhealthy idea of love? Is our culture? Do you lose yourself in relationships, romantic or platonic, again and again? And, what does healthy love look like? Jodi White, a trauma therapist and love addiction expert, joins Scott in this lively episode to dig deep into L O V E. We get into the symptoms of love addiction, the cultural and familial influences that contribute to it, where it sits within co-dependency, and the pillars needed to nourish relationships with deep connection and boundaries. Whether you suspect you might be a love addict, you’re wanting to break your love addiction, or you simply want a better, stronger relationship, this episode is not to be missed.
 
JODI’S LINKS:
Website | Instagram | Journals of a Love Addict Podcast 
 
SCOTT'S LINKS
Website | Instagram | Tiktok | Facebook    
 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” - https://ffm.to/surefirepiano
 
CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro
02:02 Jodi's Journey to Becoming a Therapist
08:11 Understanding Love Addiction
11:57 Cultural Influences on Love Addiction
16:50 Family Dynamics and Love Addiction
22:19 Codependency vs. Love Addiction
26:42 Steps to Recovery from Love Addiction
30:10 Breaking Free from Addictive Relationships
31:50 Detoxing from Love Addiction
33:06 Navigating New Relationships Post-Recovery
36:54 The Importance of Communication in Healthy Relationships
39:22 Understanding Intimacy vs. Intensity
42:57 Love Addiction Across Different Relationships
44:53 Cultural Influences on Love Addiction
44:53 The Impact of Shame on Relationships
45:46 Therapy vs. Coaching in Love Addiction Recovery
48:01 Defining Healthy Love
54:00 Becoming an Expert in Your Own Recovery
56:18 Family Dynamics and Love Addiction

Ep13 - Albert Strasser: Good F*cking Grief (and Don’t Forget the Humor)

Being human is messy, something Albert Strasser knows first-hand. As a coach who once studied to become a Tibetan monk, he was dealt a one-two punch of sorrow in recent years. First, his dad’s death, which broke him. Soon after, his brother flatlined during an iboga plant medicine journey, but was revived, only to go into a coma, and is still in an unresponsive wakeful or “vegetative” state. Albert, who now specializing in grief and depth work, brings all the wisdom he has gained from these experiences (along with a healthy sprinkling of irreverence) to clients and his workshop, “Good F*cking Grief.”
In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of grief, the healing potential and potential dangers of plant medicine, the importance of human connection, and how being "broken open" can be a gateway to deeper understanding of oneself and life. We also share our vision quest experiences, explore the role of nature in healing, and the art of turning life experiences into stories. Last but not least, we discuss the extra challenges men have in accessing their full range of emotions, and how embracing the human experience can lead to a more authentic and alive existence. This episode if chock-full of insights, humor, and truth. You don’t want to miss it.
(This plant medicine content herein 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.)
 
Albert's Links
Website | Instagram | Amazon
 
Scott's Links
Instagram | Tiktok | FaceBook | Website
 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 
 
CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro
02:51 The Vision Quest Experience
10:01 Navigating Uncertainty and Helplessness
11:15 The Role of Connection in Grief
18:20 Gifts of Grief and Sensitivity
20:06 Recovery vs. Integration in Grief
21:57 Gender Differences in Grief Processing
26:30 Cautions Around Plant Medicine
29:10 Completing the Vision Quest Journey
30:09 Embracing Discomfort and Finding Magic
32:45 The Messiness of Being Human
34:10 Lessons on Love Through Grief
40:31 Transmuting Life Experiences into Art
46:13 Understanding Depth Work
49:10 The Importance of Aliveness
51:57 Sacred Clowning and Full Expression

EP12 - Anna Symonds: Finding Beauty in Life After Your World is Torn Apart

Anna Symonds, a national champion rugby player, has been face-to-face with intense grief, loss, trauma and evil. Fifteen years ago, her life was torn apart when a good friend and team member was brutally murdered. Anna’s journey since that day has been one of navigating the challenges of healing and forgiveness, finding her way through the pain of a divorce, and, with the help of plant medicine, discovering beauty in the world again.
Now the Executive Director of the Etheridge Foundation, which helps fund research on plant medicine treatments for opioid use disorder, Anna’s story is bound to move you. And her resilience and insights are bound to inspire you.
(This plant medicine content herein 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.)
 
Anna's Links:
Etheridge Foundation website | Etheridge Foundation Instagram |
Anna's Instagram
 
Scott's Links:
Instagram | Tiktok | FaceBook | website
 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 
 
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
02:02 The Etheridge Foundation's Mission
06:07 Research and Advocacy in Plant Medicine
09:56 Diverse Approaches to Opioid Use Disorder
12:00 Personal Healing Journeys with Plant Medicine
20:07 Grief, Loss, and the Impact of Trauma
29:54 The Nature of Forgiveness
34:27 Exploring Loss and Impermanence
39:00 The Role of Psychedelics in Healing
46:19 Honoring Memories and Celebrating Life
51:28 The Impact of Loss on Life Choices

EP11 - Jimmy Riccitello: Lessons in Life & Racing from a Triathlon World Champion

Jimmy Riccitello is a triathlon legend, although he’d never use that term for himself. After falling into the sport almost by accident, he went on to become an XTERRA Off-Road Triathlon world champion, a 2x USA triathlon team member at the Goodwill Gamesone, and one of his era’s most fierce forces on the bike. He also happens to be funny as hell.
In this episode, we share tales from those earlier years in the sport, including the wild story of a man who wasn’t there and how Jimmy went from arguing with race officials to becoming the Director of Rules and Officiating for Ironman. Jimmy also shares lessons he earned from big losses, the importance of integrity and owning your sh*t, balancing training and life, the challenges pro athletes can face once they retire and lose that identity, and how his love of the sport has taken him on an unexpected career journey.
It may sound like this one is all about triathlons, but it’s really about life and how to handle challenges that come your way. Tune in.
 
Jimmy's Links:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Scott's Links:
Instagram | Tiktok | FaceBook | website
 
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
02:57 Transitioning from Professional Racing to Coaching
05:49 Understanding the Sport's Politics and Rules
08:46 The Importance of Community in Triathlon
11:58 Finding Identity Beyond Competition
14:58 Motivation and Internal Drive in Athletes
17:59 Lessons from Mentorship and Experience
20:46 The Evolution of Triathlon and Its Community
24:02 Discovering the Love for Triathlon
27:02 Parenting a Future Athlete
31:53 The Importance of Communication in Relationships
34:07 Lessons from Racing: Enhancing Relationships
37:54 Balancing Life and Athletic Pursuits
39:51 Coaching with Realistic Expectations
41:39 Transitioning from Pro Athlete to Everyday Life
42:46 Learning from Disqualification: Life Lessons
49:36 Owning Your Mistakes and Moving Forward
55:55 Finding Joy in the Journey of Athletics
01:02:34 Experiencing the Unexplainable in Athletic Pursuits

Ep10 - Sarah Hope: A Healing Journey from Plant Medicine to Shamanism to Personal Myth

In this wholly unique and wise episode, I talk with Sarah Hope, a psychedelic coach & earth-based healer. Through personal stories and profound insights, Sarah shares how her early fascination with mysticism and healing led her to embrace plant medicine and become a micro-dosing pioneer and shamanic guide. We also delve in the classic hero’s journey and contrast that with the heroine’s journey, and how both can be beneficial for women and men. And we discuss the transformative nature of grief—did you know it can be like a pineapple?—the power of storytelling and personal myth, the vital roles shamans and curanderos play across diverse cultures, and more. Tune in to explore this incredible intersection of spirituality, healing, and the power of nature.
(This plant medicine content herein 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.)
Sarah's Links:
Website | Instagram | Earth-Based Institute
Scott's Links:
Instagram | Tiktok | FaceBook | website
 
Half-male, half-female Hindu deity: Ardhanarishvara
 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 
 
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
04:46 Sarah’s Journey into Plant Medicine
09:51 Understanding Shamanism and Curanderismo
14:55 The Heroine's Journey vs. The Hero's Journey
19:47 Love, Longing, and Grief
24:54 Rituals and Community in Grieving
31:52 Grief and Celebration: The Pineapple Metaphor
34:18 Cultural Perspectives on Death and Rituals
37:26 The Journey to Paganism and Personal Rituals
42:43 Navigating the Path of Microdosing and Legitimacy
50:18 Finding Peace in the Journey of Healing
55:04 The Power of Personal Myth in Integration

Ep9 – Jeff Wright, MFT: Lessons on Life and Love from a Marriage & Family Therapist

In this wisdom-filled episode, Jeff Wright, a seasoned marriage and family therapist with 20 years of experience, shares insights he’s learned about love, loss, plant medicine and prayer as a therapist and from his own challenging life journey. Jeff and I delve into the intricate dance of vulnerability and love in relationships, the power spirituality and prayer can have in healing, the need to understand and process grief, and how ancient plant medicine practices can be therapeutic and facilitate profound personal growth. With humor and hard-earned insights into the human condition, Jeff talks about how embracing vulnerability can lead to deeper connections and a more fulfilling life. This episode will undoubtedly resonate with you no matter who you are or where you are in your own journey. You won’t want to miss this one.
(This plant medicine content herein 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.)
 
JEFF'S LINKS:
Website | Instagram | A Clear and Simple Prayer
Rosebud Reservation | Rosebud Girl & Boys Club
 
SCOTT'S LINKS: Instagram, Tiktok, FaceBook, website
 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 
 
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
02:01 Understanding Love Through Experience
05:36 The Dynamics of Vulnerability in Relationships
09:14 Navigating Vulnerability and Connection
12:48 The Role of Chaos in Transformation
20:28 Finding Meaning in Pain and Suffering
26:57 The Interplay of Joy and Pain in Life
30:54 The Power of Individual Happiness
32:55 The Legacy of George: A Warrior of Light
39:03 Healing Through Vulnerability and Love
44:51 Integrating Plant Medicine and Therapy
48:49 Understanding Prayer and Spirituality
54:00 The Continuous Journey of Healing
57:16 Navigating Grief and Loss
01:03:16 Honoring Love, Loss, and the Human Experience

Ep8 - Marisa Radha Weppner: On Healing with Psychedelics, Self-Compassion, Shadow Work & Ram Dass

In this transformative episode, Marisa Radha Weppner, a somatic and psychedelic therapist and a yoga and meditation instructor, and I explore the emerging role of psychedelics and ketamine therapy in the realm of healing. We look at how these modalities are offering new hope for those seeking healing and personal growth.
We also dive into the intriguing world of shadow work and talk about how confronting and integrating our hidden selves can lead to greater self-awareness, emotional healing, and lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Together, we delve into the healing power of self-compassion, discussing how embracing self-love can lead to profound personal development and a more satisfying life.
Last but certainly not least, Radha and I also delve into the influence of Ram Dass and his timeless spiritual teachings. Through Radha’s captivating stories and insightful discussion, we uncover the essence of some of his teachings and their impact on modern spirituality.
(This plant medicine content herein 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.)
 
Marisa's Links:
Patreon | Website | Instagram | Podcast
Ram Dass' Timothy Leary story on the Here and Now podcast
 
Scott's Links: Instagram, Tiktok, FaceBook, website
 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 
 
Chapters:
00:00 The Power of Self-Love and Hope01:06 Marissa Rada Wepner: A Multifaceted Journey01:57 The Story Behind the Name Rada05:58 Ram Dass: Bridging East and West11:57 Embracing Vulnerability in Relationships18:01 Navigating Independence and Interdependence19:59 The Importance of Shadow Work28:02 Integrating Modalities for Healing32:23 Transformative Power of Yoga41:26 Exploring Ketamine Therapy50:06 Psychedelics: A Journey Beyond56:25 Integration and Healing Through Experience

Ep7 - Andrew Munz: The Healing Power of Art from Navigating Identity to Family Tragedy

In this engaging conversation, Andrew Munz, founder and director of Tumbleweed Creative Arts in Jackson, WY, shares how art has helped him heal from an intense family tragedy. The discussion digs into the impacts of personal tragedy and the complexities of navigating relationships afterwards with honesty and vulnerability. We also talk about if beauty can be found in death and tragedy, the double-edged sword of the American dream, and the legacy of love that can persist after loss. 
In addition, by sharing his journey as a writer, comedian, and actor, Andrew and I explore the intersections of art, identity, and community via his experiences in Wyoming and Iceland. We look at how art serves as a powerful tool for education and personal growth and talk about the symbolism of tumbleweeds, where there is more than meets the eye. Andrew emphasizes the importance of authenticity in art and the role artists have in advocating for their communities.  Finally, we discuss the future of Tumbleweed Creative Arts, emphasizing the importance of community, collaboration, and expanding voices within the arts for the state of Wyoming.
(This plant medicine content herein 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.)
 
ANDREW'S LINKS:Tumbleweed Creative Arts | Tumbleweed on IG | Andrew Munz on IG
 
SCOTT'S LINKS: Instagram, Tiktok, FaceBook, website
 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 
 
CHAPTERS00:00 Intro02:00 Hallucinations and the Creative Process07:11 Discovering Iceland: A Personal Connection11:51 The Impact of COVID-19 on Identity and Community15:46 Exploring Plant Medicine and Self-Discovery20:06 Tumbleweed Creative Arts: A Space for Voices30:52 Navigating Loss and Its Influence on Art32:03 Navigating Tragedy: A Personal Journey40:03 Finding Healing Through Art49:45 Community and Connection in Grief55:31 The Future of Tumbleweed Creative Arts

Ep6 - East Forest: Making Life About Love & the Healing Potential of Music, Nature and Psychedelics

In this deep and captivating episode, I talk with the renowned and groundbreaking artist, East Forest. Together, we explore the profound connections between music, nature, and the human experience, as well as the transformative world of psychedelics, and how all these areas can foster personal growth and deepen our understanding of love. We get into why he decided to take on the mammoth task of creating his new documentary, Music for Mushrooms. East Forest also shares intimate stories from his own enchanting musical journey as we delve into how melodies mirror the rhythms of the natural world and how these elements together shape our emotions and perceptions. This is an enlightening episode that is sure to resonate with your soul. Tune in. 
(This plant medicine content herein 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.)
 
EAST FOREST’s links:Music for Mushrooms Documentary | Website |Instagram | Ten Laws Podcast | Patreon 
Voodoo - D'Angelo The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill - 
Koln - Keith Jarrett
 
Fall 2026 Tour Dates09.12 Santa Monica, CA 09.14 Ventura, CA 11.06 Woodstock, NY 11.07 Washington D.C.11.08 Springfield, MA11.09 Brooklyn, NY11.10 Boston, MA11.12 Columbus, OH11.14 Minneapolis, MN11.15 Madison, WI
CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction02:56 Exploring Love and Its Many Facets05:48 The Journey of Psychedelics and Self-Discovery09:02 Finding Love in Everyday Life11:58 Navigating the Balance of Love and Suffering15:02 The Role of Masculinity in Love17:55 The Impact of Psychedelics on Personal Growth20:47 Cultural Challenges in Expressing Love24:12 The Future of Humanity and Technology27:01 Creating Music for Healing and Connection31:37 The Emotional Aftermath of Creative Projects34:27 Navigating Technology and Self-Promotion37:35 Letting Go of Goals and Embracing the Present41:37 The Role of Music in Connection and Healing44:15 The Importance of Inspiration in Art48:53 Challenging Perceptions of Plant Medicine51:27 Music as a Universal Connector56:58 Facing Future Challenges with Resilience
 
SCOTT'S LINKS: Instagram, Tiktok, FaceBook, website
 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” 
 

Ep5 - Julie Mahoney Thomas, MA, LPC: Navigating Loss and Grief, Personal Stories and Universal Lessons

In this compelling episode, we delve into the difficulties of navigating grief, exploring both personal stories and universal themes. Join host Scott as he sits down with Julie Mahoney Thomas, a therapist with over 25 years in hospice care and grief counseling. Julie shares her personal journey through loss and how it shaped her professional path. Together, they discuss the distinctions between grief and depression, the role of rituals in healing, and the transformative potential of psychedelics. This episode offers a heartfelt exploration of how grief touches all of us while providing insights and support for those on their own healing journey.
Join us for an episode that promises to resonate with anyone who has experienced loss in any of its many incarnations, seeks to understand its healing potential, or is looking for wisdom on how to support grieving loved ones in the best way possible.
(This plant medicine content herein 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.)
 
JULIE'S LINKS:The Gentle Way Healing 
 
SCOTT'S LINKS
Website | Instagram | Tiktok | Facebook    
 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” - https://ffm.to/surefirepiano
 
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction03:09 Personal Journey into Grief05:54 Understanding Grief vs. Depression09:11 The Complexity of Grief12:08 Cultural Perspectives on Grief14:58 Healing Through Grief17:58 Guidelines for Navigating Grief20:56 The Role of Ritual in Grief23:50 Psychedelics and Grief Therapy33:12 The Healing Power of Psilocybin36:00 End of Life Experiences and Acceptance42:05 The Process of Healing and Integration44:44 Understanding Grief and Loss48:20 Psychedelics and the Grieving Process55:45 Supporting Others in Grief01:02:06 Embracing Grief and Life's Impermanence