One billion anxious and depressed individuals
Neil Gehani on making psychedelics accessible and ethical for all
This podcast was hosted by Dr. Richard Louis Miller of Mind, Body, Health & Politics
Who among us believes that our current system for treating such widespread anxiety and depression is adequate?
Whenever I openly discuss psychedelic medicines with my guests on this broadcast, I am taking a risk. However, I believe it is important to shed as much light on this topic as possible, rather than keeping people in the dark about their healing potential—or the potential harms when taken by the wrong people or in the wrong ways.
My guest this week, Neil Gehani, contacted the show after reading our newsletter announcement seeking people who had profound psychedelic healing experiences. We must include the usual disclaimer that we do not endorse any illegal experimentation. Instead, we aim to become a node in a broader network that shares information so the public can make informed decisions.
"If you are always craving and always avoiding, you will never be able to enjoy and be present in the moment." -Neil Gehani
Neil is a first-generation Indian immigrant who came to the United States at the age of 16. He grew up in India, where he attended a military boarding school beginning at the age of 4 and a half. He earned his engineering and MBA degrees in Ohio, and soon after moved to California to work in the technology sector. Over the past 15 years, he has been a software engineer and product management leader, holding three Head of Product positions and founding two companies.
In recent years, he has focused on mental health due to his own personal journey and the numerous challenges he faced while seeking help. He is now building MindLumen, which aims to democratize safe access to ethical care. Psychedelic-assisted therapy changed his life, and he wants to use his skills and experience to help others navigate the complex process safely. Neil has moderated panels, spoken publicly, and is involved in policy work to decriminalize psychedelics everywhere.
Neil invites our listeners to connect with him on LinkedIn.
Show notes:
How Neil’s first psychedelic experience with MDA in 2017 transformed his way of thinking and relating to other people.
Neil’s journeys with high doses of various substances, including MDMA, Psilocybin, and LSD.
What inspired Neil to create the MindLumen platform, and the mission of helping others navigate a complex process.
To help people suffering from mental health issues and anxiety to experience the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics.
Why living in the present moment is key to enjoying life.