Love, Loss & Hallucinations with Scott Schumaker

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

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

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

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

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

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)” 
 

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
 

In this episode, Eli Marienthal, co-founder of Back to Earth, a premier youth wilderness immersion and rites of passage organization, discusses the transformative power of nature and rites of passage for youth, particularly teenage boys. But, regardless of your age, this is an inspiring approach to connecting with oneself and those around you on a deeper level. ​Eli emphasizes the importance of connecting with wilderness, the heart, and community to foster personal growth and emotional healing. ​​Through shared experiences and ceremonies, participants are encouraged to explore their unique purpose and cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world​.
Eli and I also explore the challenges and transformations faced by today's youth, particularly in the context of wilderness therapy. We discuss generational disconnection, the importance of empathy and love in guiding young people, the need for understanding and support from adults as youth navigate their identities and relationships, and the profound lessons learned through shared experiences in nature. If you have or know someone with a challenging teen then this episode is not to be missed.
(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.)
 
ELI'S LINKS:
Back to Earth | Instagram
 
SCOTT'S LINKS
Website | Instagram | Tiktok | Facebook    
 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” - https://ffm.to/surefirepiano
 
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
02:58 Understanding Rites of Passage
06:06 The Importance of Nature in Development
09:08 Connecting with the Heart
11:55 Creating a Safe Space for Expression
15:03 The Threshold Moment: Solo Ceremony
18:00 The Power of Dreams and Personal Growth
20:55 The Journey of Self-Discovery
23:59 Reflections on Love and Service
35:28 Generational Disconnection and Understanding
39:10 The Role of Love and Compassion in Teaching
43:04 Rite of Passage and Personal Growth
48:43 Building Connections in Wilderness Programs
52:22 Loss and Transformation in Nature
56:42 Navigating Change and Family Dynamics
01:01:02 Exploring Consciousness and Adolescent Challenges
 

In this transformative episode, we delve into the journey of embracing vulnerability and escaping the chains of codependency. My guest, co-dependency counselor and ceremony guide, Erika Wright, shares her journey from codependency to embracing vulnerability, highlighting the importance of being true to oneself. She also discusses her profound experiences with plant medicine and ceremony, revealing how these practices have guided her towards living an authentic life. Discover how  vulnerability and emotional honesty can lead to deeper connections and a more fulfilling life, and the role of plant medicine in fostering genuine self-discovery.
(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.)
ERIKA'S LINKS:Website | Instagram | Healing Codependency Podcast | Made of Stars 
 
SCOTT'S LINKS
Website | Instagram | Tiktok | Facebook    
 
MUSIC – Wilderado, “Surefire (piano)” - https://ffm.to/surefirepiano
 
00:00 Introduction01:05 Understanding Codependency02:53 Cultural Influences on Relationships08:06 Navigating Modern Relationships12:13 Intimacy and Authenticity14:19 The Curse of the Rom-Com16:55 Defining Moments in Codependency Counseling22:40 Lessons from San Pedro Medicine25:34 Love as a Portal of Liberation28:48 Asking for Help and Softening32:30 The Journey of Love and Learning34:31 Navigating Parenthood with Love36:58 The Challenge of Accepting Love38:38 Instilling Values in the Next Generation40:59 Confronting Racism and Truth44:08 Acceptance vs. Boundaries46:00 The Role of Loss in Love51:58 The Interconnection of Love and Loss58:58 The Power of Choice in Love
 

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, we delve into the profound intersection of love and loss, music and parenting, and the challenges of practicing selflessness and being present. Join us as Max Rainer, the lead singer of Wilderado, opens up about his journey of music, self-discovery and the challenges of prioritizing others while nurturing his own development. Through engaging dialogue, Max shares how his experiences in a band and family life have shaped his understanding of selflessness, revealing the lessons learned along the way. You won’t want to miss this thought-provoking discussion on how to grow as an individual while remaining connected to those we love. 
Max's Links:Instagram | Surefire (piano) | Wilderado's Instagram Wilderado links
00:00 Introduction05:38 Musical Moments of Transcendence11:54 The Connection Between Music and Presence15:03 Music as a Teacher of Love23:51 Exploring Loss Through Music26:13 The Cost of Being a Musician29:06 The Journey of Parenting and Letting Go30:38 Embracing the Present: Life's Transitions31:15 Sharing Powerful Moments with Family34:12 Lessons Learned from Love37:22 The Bonds of Brotherhood in Music40:39 The Importance of Shared Experiences44:52 Navigating Loss and Its Impact55:35 Hallucinations of a Musician's Journey
Scott's Links: Instagram, Tiktok, FaceBook, website