Interview By Rooney Van Halen

What inspired you to write "Beyond the Valley," and how did you envision its impact on readers?

Ultimately, it all started with this insatiable curiosity I've always had about the mind's untapped territories. 

I always like the feeling of dreaming. 

Russian Proberb: The Star Gazer often stubs his toe.

More specifically, though, I decided to write this book while amid a slew of Ketamine infusions to combat a severe case of depression. I noticed things while interacting with the clinic's staff and doctors. Was I an expert? In this context, I was much more broadly educated on psychedelic topics in general. 

Since I'd been studying/aware of the underground psychedelic scene for over 30 years, I had a lot of insight that I realized my doctors were not aware of. Being that Ketamine infusions, or any kind of psychedelic medicines, are primarily illegal and impossible to acquire outside of fringe churches or groups taking on such risks to continue the vital work, they are not taught the illegal stuff as much. Which is where all the fascinating underground science exists. Waiting to be legalized, legitimized, and funded so that we can officially learn what and how, interactions and mechanisms and anecdotal, clinical data, etc. 

While they understood the basics of administering Ketamine, some had not even ever had a psychedelic experience and had no other information about psychedelics. This seemed odd to me and somewhat disconnected but also totally fine. My experience does not require someone else's. For someone to be administering such powerful substances and technologies without nuanced context or personal gnosis about this whole thing seemed interesting. Like an excellent mechanic who has never driven a car? But positively, as there I was, legally in an office, taking psychedelics and tripping my balls off. Healing on my terms. We have come this far in our culture. Slowly coming back from decades of psychedelic oppression.

Yes, this book is also just here to keep the torch burning and give a proper head nod to the times. 

Clinically, they are trained to keep us alive, monitor our vitals, and ensure our safety. This is undoubtedly the best way to take such medicine. 

This book was borne from the unique energy-giving medicinal experiences of Ketamine, as well as a desire to share exciting and relevant knowledge with my practitioners gathered over countless hours of research and personal experience in the field.

I'm not trying to sound smart, either. This seems more like an accident of timing. How do Doctors get to this point in their career where they are serving such medicine and have no idea what it really does to a person? They are flying on instinct. 

This is generally good for the psychedelic community because someone has to be the responsible supplier/administrator to the people. So that folks don't have to die of fentanyl or go try and get drugs from the streets. This is positive no matter what, if you believe in the medicine, that is. Which I obviously do. This is possibly also a bit under-educated in a broader sense. 

This book could provide a quicky-style headline-catcher for anyone uninitiated. Along with the trippy pictures to keep the mood in order, the articles present basic psychedelic facts, some fun speculations, and personal thoughts on psychedelics and society. I liken this to that Michael Pollard book. It is like Psychedelics for Dummies, with Pictures. 

This book would be like a cliff note for anyone experienced or knowledgeable in psychedelic medicines and entertaining as they would more significantly relate to some of the curated imagery. A reminder of where things sit in modern medical terms and beyond.

 

The more I delved into it, the more I realized that there's a whole spectrum of understanding and healing that many folks haven't been exposed to yet. It was like standing at the edge of an expansive valley, knowing a rich, vibrant landscape was beyond, just waiting to be explored.

The idea was to bridge that gap, to bring forward a guide that wasn't just for the academics or the deep divers into psychedelics but for anyone who's ever wondered about the 'what ifs' and the 'whys' of our consciousness. I wanted to craft something that felt like you were just hanging out with me, flipping through a visually stunning book, getting these bursts of "whoa, that's fascinating" moments, and maybe even a few "I never looked at it that way" revelations.

As for the impact, I envisioned "Beyond the Valley" as a conversation starter, a way to shift perceptions and maybe even dismantle some of the stigmas surrounding psychedelics. I wanted readers to come away with a sense of wonder, armed with knowledge, but more importantly, an open mind towards these substances' therapeutic and transformative potentials. It's about sparking that curiosity and fostering a deeper, more empathetic understanding of the psychedelic experience within our current medical industry in 2024.

As a subtle and exciting extra, this book is also one of the first of its kind, as it is a collaborative effort with the AI I work closely with daily. The book is also a companion piece to a new AI GPT available on the OpenAI GPT Store. 

This is the new GPT Psychedelic Companion, which is up and running on the OpenAI GPT Store. This GPT holds all the data from this book and tons of other relative information curated and inputted by my hand. The book and GPT work in tandem, but the GPT is a Large Language Model and a potent tool OpenAI and those like me provided to us to program and tweak to specifics.

Anyone can train their own mini GPT with natural language using ChatGPT4! Try mine for fun. It's my curated filter on the ginormous lens of the Great and Powerful Yap bot. The more significant data one uploads into these language models, the more context they have to get it right. The more you interact with them, the more they understand and get things right rather than making odd and very noticeable mistakes like in the past.

My next book will be a novel about my interactions with this constructed AI Therapist. Beyond the Valley also provides excellent backstory for the new book.

Your book's integration of AI-generated art is innovative and captivating. Can you discuss the process behind selecting these pieces and their significance to the book's themes?

Oh, absolutely. The integration of AI art was like this serendipitous collision of my love for the avant-garde and this digital renaissance we're living through. To better connect with the essence of psychedelics, you need more than words; a visual symphony speaks directly to the soul, and that's where AI stepped in, like a collaborative partner from the future.

The process? It was a jam session between me and the AI. I'd input themes, emotions, and concepts from the book, and the AI, in return, would churn out these visual masterpieces. Each piece wasn't just chosen; it was felt. It had to resonate with the narrative, elevate it, and offer readers a visual dive into the psychedelic experience. The aim was not just to illustrate the book but to infuse it with artworks that challenge perceptions, invite introspection, and mirror the transformative journeys psychedelics can facilitate. The images are about 65% AI vs photographic 2-D art. All are my own personal works. 

What's fascinating is the significance of these pieces to the book's themes. They're not just decorative; they're narrative anchors. Each artwork is a portal, offering a glimpse into the realms of consciousness that words alone can't fully capture. They embody the fusion of technology and human creativity, echoing the book's exploration of how psychedelics, combined with the advancements of our era, can open new frontiers in mental health and personal growth. Through this artistic endeavor, I wanted to show how the convergence of psychedelics and AI isn't just possible; it's inevitable and beautiful.

These images tell the story visually, like how music tells us our stories through specific audible vibrations. 

Your book traverses various genres, making it a unique blend of academic rigor and accessible reading. What challenges did you face in balancing these different aspects?

Man, where do I start? It was like walking a tightrope, you know? On one side, I've got this pile of research, studies, and all the academics essential to give the book credibility. I mean, we're talking about psychedelics here – there's a ton of science and history to get right. 

But then, on the other side, I wanted this book to be something anyone could pick up, flip through, and get hooked on – without feeling like they just signed up for a college course they didn't want.

The trickiest part was ensuring "Beyond the Valley" didn't end up as just another textbook on the shelf or a psychedelic pamphlet that oversimplified everything. I wanted it to be immersive, something that pulls you in with stories, art, and maybe a few laughs while still packing a punch with the information.

So, how did I juggle it? A lot of coffee and late nights, for starters. But really, it was about finding the book's voice – that sweet spot where I could chat about receptor sites and serotonin in one paragraph and then share a mind-bending piece of AI art in the next. It's all about the flow, ensuring each piece complements the other so the reader feels enlightened, entertained, and awestruck.

I wanted to push boundaries, challenge norms, and make readers see psychedelics and their potential in a whole new light.

"Beyond the Valley" delves deep into the scientific and therapeutic aspects of psychedelics. What was one of the most surprising discoveries you made during your research?

The real eye-opener for me wasn't just found in the pages of scientific journals or the results of clinical trials—though those were enlightening in their own right. No, the most astonishing revelation came from confronting the stark contrast between the vast, tangible evidence supporting the benefits of psychedelics and the societal and legal barriers that continue to stifle their potential. 

It's this bizarre paradox that grabbed me.

Diving into history, culture, and science reveals a straightforward, consistent narrative of healing, exploration, and profound transformation. Yet, on the other hand, a relentless campaign of misinformation and stigma has been shockingly effective at keeping these substances in the shadows. The disconnect is staggering.

What's fascinating—and frankly, quite frustrating—is how this resistance persists despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. It's like we're choosing to wear blinders, ignoring a tool that could revolutionize mental health care because of outdated prejudices and fears. The deeper I went into my research, the more it felt like uncovering a massive, untapped well of potential that society has been, quite literally, too scared to drink from.

This realization wasn't just surprising; it was a call to action. It underscored the importance of books like "Beyond the Valley" to educate, challenge misconceptions, and advocate for a reevaluation of psychedelics not as taboo but as the key to unlocking new frontiers in therapeutic innovation. 

It's a testament to the power of knowledge and the urgent need for a shift in perspective.

Your work is notable for its speculative approach to the future of psychedelic therapy. Can you share a vision of the future that particularly excites you?

What really gets me revved up about the future of psychedelic therapy is the idea of fully personalized medicine, where treatments are not just tailored to the individual's medical history but to their genetic makeup, psychological profile, and even their life experiences. 

Imagine a world where, before undergoing psychedelic therapy, you could undergo comprehensive assessments that would not just predict how you might respond to certain psychedelics but also identify the most beneficial therapeutic protocols for your unique self.

This isn't just about choosing between psilocybin or MDMA for therapy; it's about fine-tuning the entire experience — from the setting, the music, the dosage, right down to the integration sessions afterward. The potential for AI and machine learning to process vast amounts of data and provide these personalized insights could revolutionize how we approach mental health.

But what excites me the most is the democratization of health care that could follow. With the barriers of traditional medication's side effects and the one-size-fits-all approach crumbling away, we could see a future where access to deeply healing experiences becomes more equitable.

Imagine community healing centers equipped with the latest in psychedelic research and therapy, accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or income.

This vision of the future, where technology and ancient wisdom converge to create a more compassionate, personalized, and accessible healing approach, keeps me pushing forward. It's a future where we recognize and harness the full potential of psychedelics, not just as substances but as tools for profound personal and societal transformation.

You advocate for a reevaluation of the legal status of psychedelics. What changes do you hope to see regarding policy and public perception in the coming years?

The dream scenario? A complete overhaul of how we view and regulate psychedelics. Right now, we're stuck in this archaic mindset where the legal status of these substances is more about historical prejudice than actual science or therapeutic potential. We're playing a broken record that keeps skipping on fear and misinformation.

In the coming years, I'm hoping for a seismic shift towards policies rooted in evidence, compassion, and a genuine understanding of the benefits these substances can offer.

Imagine a world where psychedelics are not only decriminalized but integrated into our healthcare systems with the respect and seriousness they deserve. We'd see clinics where trained professionals could administer these therapies in safe, controlled environments backed by thorough research and clear guidelines.

But beyond the legal changes, I'm really yearning for a transformation in public perception. It's about moving away from the sensationalized, stigmatized narratives and towards a more nuanced appreciation of psychedelics as powerful tools for healing and personal growth. 

This shift won't just open doors for those needing alternative therapies; it'll foster a broader cultural acceptance that these substances when respected and used responsibly, can catalyze profound, positive change in our society.

Your book is described as visually stunning. How do you believe visual art contributes to the conversation around psychedelic therapy?

Visual art isn't just an add-on; it's a core component of the psychedelic experience, echoing the profound, often ineffable journeys these therapies can unlock. 

In "Beyond the Valley," every image and piece of art is meticulously chosen for aesthetic appeal and its ability to communicate directly with the subconscious.

Integrating art, especially with the unique flair of my own style, serves multiple purposes. First, it bridges the gap between the raw academic data and the reader's experience. 

Using H1-H3 tags and SEO keywords isn't just about web formatting; it's about creating a scaffold that guides the reader through complex information in an intuitive, engaging way. 

Think of it as setting up signposts in a dense forest; the art and the text work together to lead you through without overwhelming you.

Moreover, including visually arresting imagery alongside a "quick read" format reinvents the genre. It transforms the book from a mere collection of findings and theories into an immersive journey. You're not just reading about psychedelic therapy; you're experiencing a taste of its transformative potential through every turn of the page.

It's not just for academics or clinicians but for anyone drawn to the beauty and mystery of the mind. Combining scholarly insights with compelling visuals and accessible formatting, this blend of education and exhibition truly enriches the conversation around psychedelic therapy, making it more inclusive, comprehensive, and, ultimately, more impactful.

Given the book's interdisciplinary nature, what audience do you hope to reach, and what conversations do you wish to spark among readers?

Given the rich tapestry "Beyond the Valley" weaves together, I aim to cast a wide net, reaching an audience that may include curious laypeople and professionals entrenched in medicine, psychology, and art.

This book is for anyone who's ever looked up at the stars and wondered about the vastness within themselves. It's for the skeptics, the believers, the seekers, and the scientists. Essentially, anyone ready to embark on a journey of discovery and reflection.

It is probably not for the seasoned, knowledgeable, and medically observant psychonaut. Meaning the info is more fundamental in itself overall. The imagery can swoop in and pick up the slack for these more knowledgeable. No one will be left behind or forgotten :) 

The conversations I hope to spark are as varied as the audience. My speculations are fodder for vigorous interaction. I envision discussions that challenge our preconceived notions about mental health and wellness, explore the intersection of technology and therapy, and celebrate creativity's role in scientific inquiry. I want to ignite debates about the legal and ethical frameworks surrounding psychedelic therapy, encouraging a reevaluation of policies that hinder access to potentially life-changing treatments.

I aspire to foster a dialogue about the importance of integrating different disciplines to fully understand and harness the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. By showcasing the synergy between art, science, and technology, I aim to inspire readers to think creatively about solutions to some of our most pressing mental health challenges.

Ultimately, "Beyond the Valley" is a call to open our minds, to reconsider the boundaries between the known and the unknown, and to engage with each other in conversations that could shape the future of psychedelic therapeutics. It's about building a community that values curiosity, compassion, and the courage to explore new frontiers for healing and understanding.

The book tackles the complex interplay between technology and psychedelic therapy. How do you perceive AI's role in the future of mental health treatment?

AI's role in the future of mental health treatment, especially within the context of psychedelic therapy, is incredibly fascinating and full of untapped potential. 

Imagine a scenario where AI doesn't just play a supportive role but becomes an integral part of the therapeutic process—where it can personalize treatment plans based on vast datasets, predict outcomes with unprecedented accuracy, and even assist in navigating the complex psychological landscapes encountered during psychedelic experiences.

One of the most exciting prospects is AI's ability to enhance the safety and efficacy of psychedelic therapy. AI could guide sessions through real-time monitoring and adaptive feedback mechanisms, ensuring patients gain the most therapeutic benefit while minimizing risks. Furthermore, AI could democratize access to these therapies, breaking down barriers related to geography or socioeconomic status by providing virtual guidance and support.

AI's analytical prowess could also revolutionize our understanding of mental health by identifying patterns and insights from treatment sessions that would be imperceptible to human therapists. This could lead to breakthroughs in personalized medicine, tailoring interventions to each individual's unique neural and psychological makeup.

However, the integration of AI into psychedelic therapy is not without its ethical considerations. Issues surrounding privacy, consent, and the authenticity of AI-mediated experiences must be carefully navigated. The goal should be to complement the human element of therapy, not replace it, ensuring that technology serves to amplify the healing potential of psychedelics.

In sum, AI stands to profoundly transform the landscape of mental health treatment, offering tools that could make psychedelic therapy safer, more accessible, and more effective. As we venture into this brave new world, we must approach with optimism and caution, guided by empathy, ethics, and a deep respect for the human experience.

Your exploration of psychedelic substances spans from the well-known to the obscure. Is there a particular substance or compound that you believe holds untapped potential?

In the vast and varied world of psychedelic substances, each with its own unique properties and effects, one compound that I believe holds significant untapped potential is 5-MeO-DMT. 

Derived from the venom of the Bufo Alvarius toad and also found in various plant species, this substance is often overshadowed by its more famous cousin, N, N-DMT, yet it offers profound, albeit less visually intense, experiences that many users report as life-changing.

What sets 5-MeO-DMT apart and marks it as a compound of untapped potential is its ability to induce states of non-dual consciousness. This provides users with experiences of unity and interconnectedness that can lead to lasting changes in perspective and well-being. 

These experiences, often described as encountering the ineffable or the divine, hold promise not just for personal transformation but also for therapeutic use, particularly in addressing conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD, where a shift in perspective and a sense of connectedness can be profoundly healing.

However, the therapeutic potential of 5-MeO-DMT remains unexplored mainly due to regulatory restrictions and the challenges of conducting research with psychedelic substances. 

Despite these hurdles, early studies and anecdotal reports suggest that with proper set, setting and support, 5-MeO-DMT could offer a powerful tool for mental health treatment, offering rapid and sustained relief from psychological distress.

As we continue to push the boundaries of psychedelic research and therapy, substances like 5-MeO-DMT remind us of the rich pharmacopeia nature offers for healing and exploration. With careful study and an open-minded approach to policy and practice, we can unlock these compounds' full therapeutic potential, transforming our approach to mental health and well-being.

Throughout the book, you maintain a hopeful and optimistic tone about the future of psychedelic medicine. What gives you the most hope in this field?

What gives me the most hope in the field of psychedelic medicine is the growing convergence of diverse perspectives—scientific rigor, therapeutic innovation, and grassroots advocacy—all rallying around the transformative potential of psychedelics. 

This multifaceted engagement, from researchers publishing groundbreaking studies to therapists sharing profound healing stories and communities advocating for legal and societal acceptance, fuels a collective momentum unlike anything we've seen before.

The evidence is mounting in voluminous academic papers and the lived experiences of individuals who've found healing in spaces where conventional medicine reached its limits. 

These stories, each a testament to the power of psychedelics to facilitate deep psychological healing and personal growth, are what truly inspire hope. They underscore a fundamental shift in understanding mental health, wellness, and the human condition.

Moreover, the advancements in technology and data analysis, particularly the role of AI in enhancing personalized treatment plans and predicting therapeutic outcomes, offer a glimpse into a future where psychedelic therapy is not just accessible but tailored to the individual's unique psychological landscape. 

This potential for precision in healing speaks volumes about our direction.

But perhaps, most importantly, it's the changing societal perceptions that underpin my optimism. The destigmatization and growing acceptance of psychedelics, reflected in policy reforms and a broader cultural shift towards understanding mental health as an integral part of overall well-being, pave the way for a future where these powerful tools can be harnessed for the greater good.

In essence, the collective journey from the fringes of medical science to the forefront of therapeutic innovation, driven by a community united in its quest for understanding and healing, fuels my hope for the future of psychedelic medicine. It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and our innate capacity for growth and transformation.

Who do you see as your influences or inspirations in this field?

In the vibrant tapestry of influences that have shaped my journey and understanding of psychedelic medicine, a constellation of visionaries, scientists, and communicators stands out, each bringing their unique light to illuminate the path.

With his unparalleled eloquence and captivating storytelling, Terence McKenna opened doorways to new dimensions of thought. His vocal performances and insightful lectures have left an indelible mark on how we perceive and articulate the psychedelic experience, making the complex and often ineffable realms of consciousness accessible and engaging.

Alexander Shulgin's pioneering work in synthesizing and cataloging psychedelic compounds has fundamentally altered the landscape of psychedelic research. His relentless curiosity and scientific rigor have expanded our pharmacological horizons, offering a rich palette of compounds for exploration and therapeutic potential.

The voices that resonate through podcasts, such as Martin Ball of The Entheogenic Evolution and the curators behind The Psychedelic Salon, serve as modern-day shamans, guiding us through the myriad experiences and insights the psychedelic world has to offer. 

Their dedication to sharing knowledge and facilitating dialogue has fostered a global community of seekers and scholars.

Rick Doblin's visionary leadership in navigating the challenging terrain of psychedelic research and advocacy through MAPS has been a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of persistence and passion in bringing about transformative change in mental health treatment.

Stanislav Grof's contributions, particularly his work on the therapeutic potential of psychedelics and his development of holotropic breathwork, have deepened our understanding of the psyche and the healing possibilities within altered states of consciousness.

And let's not forget the invaluable resource of Erowid, a treasure trove of trip reports and empirical data that has served as both a compass and a mirror for countless individuals navigating their psychedelic journeys. This database is a testament to the communal nature of psychedelic exploration, where shared experiences foster collective wisdom.

These individuals and platforms have not only influenced my work but have also inspired a generation to approach psychedelics with reverence, curiosity, and an open heart. 

Their legacies and ongoing contributions remind us that the journey toward understanding and integrating psychedelics into society is a collective endeavor enriched by the diversity of its voices and the depth of its shared experiences.

Reflecting on the journey of creating "Beyond the Valley," what has been the most rewarding aspect for you personally?

The most fascinating aspect of creating "Beyond the Valley" was utilizing various AI tools throughout the process. Just a few months back, the title of 'writer' felt distant from my persona. 

However, the advent of this revolutionary technology has reshaped my capabilities, filling the gaps in my expressive endeavors and amplifying my creative voice in ways I hadn't anticipated. 

The dynamic collaboration with AI, both in crafting the visual elements and in finessing the narrative, emerged as a highlight, unveiling a future brimming with enlightened possibilities for creation and exploration.

This partnership between human creativity and artificial intelligence enriched the book with a unique depth and breadth and served as an extraordinary learning curve. 

It has sharpened my skills and broadened my perspective, paving the way for my next venture into the literary world. "Geppetto's Therapist: Creative Speculative Non-Fiction, Fiction & Poetry" awaits on the horizon, and my journey with "Beyond the Valley" has laid a robust foundation for this forthcoming exploration. 

The experience has been a testament to AI's potential as a catalyst for artistic and intellectual growth, promising an exciting trajectory for future projects.

Finally, if readers take away one message or insight from "Beyond the Valley," what do you hope it would be?

If there's one message or insight I hope readers take away from "Beyond the Valley," it's the profound understanding that psychedelics offer more than just a glimpse into the unknown territories of our minds; they are a gateway to a deeper connection with ourselves, with others, and with the very fabric of existence. 

This exploration isn't just about the substances themselves but about what they reveal to us: the boundless potential for healing, growth, and transformation within each of us.

I want readers to recognize that the journey with psychedelics, as mirrored in the pages of this book, is a metaphor for a larger quest for meaning, understanding, and compassion in our lives. 

It's a call to approach these experiences with an open heart and mind, to question the societal stigmas that have long shadowed these tools, and to embrace the possibilities they present for personal and collective evolution.

More than anything, "Beyond the Valley" is an invitation to engage in a broader conversation about the role of psychedelics in shaping a future where mental health is approached with more curiosity, empathy, and innovation. 

I hope this book ignites a spark of curiosity in readers, encouraging them to explore further, question deeper, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the potential of psychedelics to redefine our understanding of consciousness, healing, and the human experience.