As you explore the promising world of psychedelic healing, the MAPS Canada Youtube channel and podcast is your resource for science-based information, learning, and invigorating conversation. Whether you're a researcher, a healthcare professional, or simply someone who wants to learn more about psychedelics, check out the MAPS Canada YouTube channel and podcast.

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MAPS Canada Podcast: 

The MAPS Canada Podcast hosts a variety of guests from scientists on the cutting edge to popular figures sharing personal experiences, to policy makers discussing the present and future legal landscape of psychedelics. By bringing together such a broad range of voices, the MAPS Canada podcast provides listeners with a multi-dimensional view of the psychedelic movement in Canada and around the world. 

The MAPS Canada podcast is a video podcast, but it’s also available in audio-only format on Amazon and Spotify. Whether you are a long-time enthusiast or new to the world of psychedelics, the MAPS Canada podcast has something to offer for everyone. So don’t miss out! 

2026 PODCAST & YOUTUBE VIDEOS

January 30, 2026

MAPS Canada presents:

Vilca Afterglow: How Psychedelic Beer Shaped the Wari Empire with Justin Jennings

In this episode of the MAPS Canada podcast, host Warren Jane sits down with Justin Jennings, Senior Curator of the Archaeology of the Americas at the Royal Ontario Museum and leading expert on Andean civilizations, to discuss the ancient role of psychedelics in empire-building, exploring how vilca—a powerful plant-based hallucinogen—may have influenced social cohesion and governance in the pre-Inca Wari Empire of the Andes (600–1000 CE).
 
They examine how vilca seeds, mixed into ceremonial beer, likely produced not just immediate visionary experiences but enduring neuroplastic “afterglow” effects—fostering greater empathy, openness, and pro-social bonds that helped integrate disrupted communities amid imperial expansion.

January 23, 2026

MAPS Canada presents:

Ayahuasca, Shamanism and the Religious Exemption That Never Was with Allan Finney

This episode of the MAPS Canada podcast explores the living lineage of ayahuasca—from its Indigenous ceremonial roots to contemporary struggles for religious freedom and cultural recognition in Canada.
 
Host Warren Jane sits down with Allan Finney of the Companionship of the Sacred Vine to discuss the sacred role of the medicine, the importance of ceremony, integration, and community, and the complex legal landscape facing entheogenic spiritual practices today. Together, they unpack how tradition, spirituality, and modern policy collide—and what’s at stake for healing, culture, and conscience.

January 14, 2026

MAPS Canada presents:

Denied Psilocybin, Approved for MAiD: A Doctor’s Fight for Common Sense

In this episode of the MAPS Canada podcast, policy and advocacy team member Kyle Sittek-Lumsden speaks with Dr. Blake Pearson about his father Pete Pearson’s experience with existential distress as well as the application process for psychedelic-assisted therapy and medical assistance in dying. They talk about the personal difficulties related to a terminal diagnosis and how Pete’s SAP application was denied after an 11 month waiting period while his MAiD request was accepted within 30 days. Join us for this moving and emotional discussion on how these two policy issues intersect in a real-world case. If you would like to show support for Pete’s case to receive compassionate access to psychedelic-assisted therapy through a section 56. exemption, please email the Minister of Health

January 12, 2026

MAPS Canada presents:

Exploring Hidden Paths of Mental Health Using Ibogaine with Jonathan Dickinson, Ambio Life Sciences

What happens when an ancient plant medicine meets cutting‑edge neuroscience and careful clinical protocols?

This episode of the MAPS Canada podcast traces Ibogaine’s path from traditional Tabernanth iboga ceremonies to medically supervised treatment for people navigating addiction, PTSD, and other mental health challenges.

Jonathan Dickinson, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Ambio Life Sciences and podcast host Osheen Dayal talk about cardiac safety, exclusion criteria, neuroplasticity, and how community, culture, and integration shape the long‑term impact of the experience.

January 12, 2026

MAPS Canada presents:

The Medicine Within | Ep. 1: Reframing Psychedelics—Healing, Risk & Responsibility with Mark Haden

The Medicine Within is a 7-part MAPS Canada series hosted by Osheen Dayal, exploring the evolving landscape of psychedelic medicine, mental health, and embodied healing. Through grounded conversations with experts, practitioners, and voices of lived experience, this series explores how inner healing is cultivated through intention, integration, community, and care — beyond substances alone.

In the opening episode of The Medicine Within, Mark Haden joins Osheen Dayal for a wide-ranging conversation on psychedelics — from shifting drug policy and public perception to neuroplasticity, intention setting, community use, and integration. Together, they unpack common myths, real risks, and the broader cultural and environmental implications of psychedelic healing, while emphasizing responsibility, preparation, and advocacy.

2025 PODCAST & YOUTUBE VIDEOS

December 25, 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

Psychedelics, Integration & Ethics in Eating Disorder Research & More with Dr Elena Koning

In this episode, Dr. Elena Koning, Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Psychiatry at Dalhousie University and MAPS Canada volunteer, joins MAPS Canada Podcast host Osheen Dayal to explore the emerging science of psilocybin-assisted therapy, with a particular focus on eating disorders, mental health, and ethical responsibility.

We discuss why psychedelics are not a magic pill, the critical role of integration in creating lasting change, and why healthy skepticism is essential in psychedelic research. Dr. Koning also addresses the risks of sensationalized media narratives, the limits of current evidence, and the ethical challenges facing scientists and clinicians in this rapidly evolving field.

Topics covered:
• Psilocybin & eating disorder research
• Psychedelic therapy vs traditional psychotherapy
• Integration and long-term outcomes
• Ethics, access, and cultural responsibility

December 23, 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

The relationship between psilocybin & freedom of thought in Canada with Paul Lewin

In this episode of the MAPS Canada podcast, Kyle Sittek-Lumsden speaks with the Toronto based lawyer Paul Lewin about a recent criminal case in London, Ontario and his argument that psilocybin is a freedom of thought tool that is protected by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
For inquiries on how to make a donation to fund the appeal in a higher court, please contact paullewin@lewinsagara.ca

December 13, 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

Rehearsing Death: Psychedelics and the Art of Letting Go with Susan Wright

Rielle Capler hosts this episode of the MAPS Canada podcast for a conversation with Susan Wright to explore how psychedelics can transform our understanding of life and death. In this deep and intimate conversation, Susan shares her own visionary experiences — from glimpses of other realms to encounters with loved ones — and reflects on how these journeys can serve as rehearsals for the great mystery beyond. Together, they discuss the courage to face what we cannot see, and how exploring consciousness opens us to new dimensions of being.

November 21, 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

Discussing MAiD & psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy with Dr. James Downar

In this episode, MAPS Canada Policy & Advocacy Team member Kyle Sittek-Lumsden speaks with Dr. James Downar to explore medical assistance in dying, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and how the two complex topics intersect in Canadian law and medical practice. 
 
Dr. Downar shares his expertise as both a palliative care physician and psychedelic researcher to provide background and insight in both MAiD & psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. He helps to clear up some common misconceptions and provide a deeper understanding on these two highly debated issues.

November 11, 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

Psychedelics and Veterans: A New Hope with Gordon Hurley

In this episode, MAPS Canada Podcast host Osheen Dayal speaks with Gordon Hurley — a veteran whose story sheds light on how psychedelics and cannabis can support healing after trauma.

Gordon shares how his military experience shaped his risk tolerance and acceptance, and how psychedelic therapy can be a game-changer for mental health. From viewing psychedelics as medicine to exploring the role of creativity, community, and new neural pathways in recovery — this conversation highlights the transformative potential of these therapies.

November 1, 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

Psychedelics & First Responders: Jonathan A Hill on Psychedelics Clinical Trial for First Responders

In this episode of the MAPS Canada Podcast, Osheen Dayal hosts Jonathan Alexander Hill, co-founder of Empower Psychedelics. 🌿🎙️

Jonathan shares the mission behind Empower Psychedelics: advancing research, breaking stigma, and creating access to psychedelic therapy — especially for first responders. He discusses their Health Canada–approved clinical trial focused on firefighters, the unique benefits of group therapy, and the global interest among first responders in psychedelic healing.

This conversation highlights the importance of public education, collaboration with MAPS Canada, and distinguishing clinical practice from underground use. Jonathan also reflects on the future of legalization and how psychedelic access may differ from the cannabis model.

September 27, 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

Exploring Spiritual Care in Psychedelic Therapy with Sinéad, Dr. Blainey & Reverend Jeffrey

Exploring Spiritual Care in Psychedelic Therapy with Sinéad Sullivan-Paul, Dr. Marc Blainey, Reverend Jeffrey Vidt In this episode of the MAPS Canada Podcast, Osheen Dayal hosts a conversation on integrating spiritual care into psychedelic therapy — honouring Indigenous wisdom, navigating ethics in clinical trials, and redefining spirituality in this evolving field. 🌿

Takeaways:

  • Spiritual care is essential in psychedelic therapy.
  • Indigenous knowledge must be respected in psychedelic practices.
  • Clinical ethics should integrate spiritual exploration.
  • Spirituality can be defined in many personal ways. -The Canadian Association for Spiritual Care promotes spiritual competencies.

September 22, 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

Psychedelics & Cross-Cultural Mysticism: Dr. Amod Lele on Philosophy & Self-Transcendence

In this episode, host Osheen sits down with Dr. Amod Sandhya Lele to explore the intersections of psychedelics, mysticism, and comparative philosophy. 

Dr. Lele shares his journey into Buddhism and how it shaped his understanding of mystical experiences—highlighting self-transcendence, cultural influences, and the role of psychedelics in exploring mysticism. 

Check out the podcast to learn more about cross-cultural philosophy, Buddhist thought, and the future of psychedelic mysticism research.

July 4 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

Healing Racial Trauma with Psychedelics | Dr. Monnica Williams (Part 2)

Dr. Monnica T. Williams, a board-certified clinical psychologist and Canada Research Chair based at the University of Ottawa, specializes in BIPOC mental health and psychedelic therapy. She directs the Behavioral Wellness Clinic, has published over 200 scientific articles, and researches racial trauma and culturally competent care. Her work is widely recognized by major psychological organizations and featured in top media outlets. 

In this powerful episode, Dr. Williams joins MAPS Canada Podcast host Osheen Dayal to explore the role of psychedelics in healing racial trauma. From the challenges of recruiting diverse participants in clinical trials to the urgent need for culturally competent therapist training, this conversation offers critical insights into the future of inclusive psychedelic therapy. 

Topics include: 
Racial trauma & PTSD
Microaggressions towards BIPOC community
Safe spaces for BIPOC healing
Cultural humility vs. cultural competence
Risks of commercialization

Watch the full episode to learn how psychedelic therapy must evolve to support true healing for marginalized communities.

Get Test kits: MAPS Canada Store  
Website: Trauma psychedelic healing retreat

Psychedelic training retreat: Ketamine-Assisted Therapy Training Retreat 

 

July 4 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

Healing Racial Trauma with Psychedelics | Dr. Monnica Williams (Part 1)

Dr. Monnica T. Williams, a board-certified clinical psychologist and Canada Research Chair based at the University of Ottawa, specializes in BIPOC mental health and psychedelic therapy. She directs the Behavioral Wellness Clinic, has published over 200 scientific articles, and researches racial trauma and culturally competent care. Her work is widely recognized by major psychological organizations and featured in top media outlets. 

In this powerful episode, Dr. Williams joins MAPS Canada Podcast host Osheen Dayal to explore the role of psychedelics in healing racial trauma. From the challenges of recruiting diverse participants in clinical trials to the urgent need for culturally competent therapist training, this conversation offers critical insights into the future of inclusive psychedelic therapy. 

Topics include: 
Racial trauma & PTSD
Microaggressions towards BIPOC community
Safe spaces for BIPOC healing
Cultural humility vs. cultural competence
Risks of commercialization

Watch the full episode to learn how psychedelic therapy must evolve to support true healing for marginalized communities.

Get Test kits: MAPS Canada Store  
Website: Trauma psychedelic healing retreat

Psychedelic training retreat: Ketamine-Assisted Therapy Training Retreat 

 

July 1 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

Drug Checking, Harm Reduction, & Community | Jaime Arredondo

In this episode of the MAPS Canada podcast, host Jarred sits down with Jaime Arredondo, Canada Research Chair on Substance Use at the University of Victoria, to discuss what harm reduction looks like in other countries, how Jaime got academically involved on substance use issues, and how he is building drug checking capacity across North America. 

Join Jaime and Jarred as they ponder how to be a community in the face of adversity, and what it means to adapt harm reduction measures to fit local environments.

June 6, 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

Psychedelics, Fentanyl & Radical Drug Policy | Mitchell Gomez on Harm Reduction

In this episode of the MAPS Canada podcast, host Osheen sits down with Mitchell Gomez, Executive Director of DanceSafe, to talk about the evolving psychedelic landscape, the rise of fentanyl in recreational drugs, and why harm reduction—not prohibition—is the future of drug policy. Mitchell shares hard truths from the rave scene, the importance of drug testing, the science behind psychedelic safety, and how law enforcement and public health systems must adapt to the new drug reality. Key topics include:

  • Why DanceSafe was founded -Fentanyl’s growing threat
  • How technology is improving drug testing
  • The case for regulated drug sales -Why LSD is less toxic than water
  • The risks and benefits of psychedelics -Community support and peer education
  • The importance of training for psychological crises

May 23, 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

Serotonin, Spirituality & Science: Inside Psychedelics A to Z with Dr Olga Chernoloz

Join us for an insightful conversation with neuropharmacologist and author Dr. Olga Chernoloz as she breaks down the science, culture, and creativity woven into her beautifully illustrated book, Psychedelics A to Z. We explore key topics like harm reduction, microdosing, cultural use of cannabis, the role of music in transcendental states, and why journaling is essential for integration.

April 24, 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

Cannabis, Opioid Use Disorder & Overdose Prevention: A Harm Reduction Conversation with Dr MJ Milloy

Why isn’t the evidence around supervised injection sites leading to real change? How does cannabis interact with opioid use treatment? In this episode, Dr. M-J Milloy, Interim Director of Research at BCCSU, dives into the data—and the disconnect—between science and policy. We explore gendered and SES experiences of substance use, the link between housing and drug safety, and how research can drive more compassionate public health responses.

March 27, 2025

MAPS Canada presents:

Healing & Harm Reduction in Psychedelics: A Conversation with Erica Siegal

In this episode, MAPS Canada’s Podcast host, Osheen Dayal, talks with Erica Siegal about the ethics, risks, and realities of psychedelic therapy.
Erica is a licensed therapist, harm reduction expert, and the Executive Director of
SHINE Collective, a nonprofit supporting survivors of harm in psychedelic spaces.

March 21, 2025

MAPS Canada Presents:

The importance of Set, Setting and Sitter at Psychedelic Clinical Trials

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