Dec 03 2024 73 mins 3
Katherine MacLean, PhD is a writer, research scientist, mother and adventure-seeker. She has spent the past two decades studying the effects of mindfulness meditation and psychedelics, surviving motherhood, and learning a lot about death and grief. Her debut book covering all of this terrain, Midnight Water: A Psychedelic Memoir is available in print and audio formats.
Episode Highlights
- Katherine reflects on her journey through motherhood and encounters with death
- A childhood fascination with graveyards and their connection to history
- Transformative psilocybin experiences that opened new dimensions of reality
- Exploring the intersection of spirituality and psychedelics in various traditions
- The role of meditation in navigating consciousness and personal growth
- The impact of her sister's death on Katherine’s exploration of grief and psychedelics
- Insights from Johns Hopkins research on consciousness and spiritual experiences
- Cultural narratives around psychedelics and their potential for healing
- The intertwining of motherhood and psychedelic experiences in Katherine’s life
- Addressing personal trauma as a crucial step before engaging with psychedelics
- Reframing death as a transformative experience akin to psychedelic journeys
- Societal perceptions of death and the need for open dialogues about mortality
- Embracing life’s complexities and authenticity in motherhood and mortality
- Personal agency in death care and the importance of meaningful rituals
- The impact of psychedelics on relationships and deeper connections with others
- Katherine’s writing journey and the importance of sharing her memoir
- Future implications of psychedelic research for mental health and spirituality
- Embracing complexity and ongoing self-discovery
Katherine MacLean’s Links
- Website: www.katherinemaclean.org
- Instagram: @katherine.maclean.phd
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Book: Midnight Water: A Psychedelic Memoir by Katherine MacLean
- Advocate for Funeral Industry Reform: Caitlin Doughty
- Study of the Effect of Meditation Practice: The Shamatha Project
- Green Funeral Home Specialized in Human Composting: Recompose
- The Crestone End of Life Project: Open Air Cremation Site
Katherine MacLean’s Special Offer
- For only $5, you will be able to view and download two high-quality videos of Katherine’s 16-minute guided meditations
