In this podcast episode of the Psychedelics Design Podcast, we had the honour to speak with Alexandra Pallas, co-founder and advisor of Beckley Retreats, discussing her unique journey from a small-town dreamer to a conscious business entrepreneur.
Pallas recounts her early experiences running in the woods and writing stories, which laid the foundation for her passion for narrative. After attending UCLA's film school and having a spontaneous mystical experience that shifted her focus away from Hollywood, she explored various spiritual practices and eventually entered the field of adult learning.
This diverse background culminated in her role at Beckley Retreats, where she emphasizes the importance of preparation and integration in psychedelic experiences.
Pallas states, "We have to get out of our own traps of just being the character that's helpless and zoom out and be the author of the story," highlighting her belief in personal agency through storytelling.
We also talk about the challenges and ethical considerations involved in creating psychedelic retreats and about the idea of how psychedelics can induce the design of healthier products through nature-relatedness.
And we talked about the “woo-woo meter” to find the right tone of language…
Beckley Retreats
The World’s Only Psychedelic Retreats Backed By 25 Years Of Scientific Research And An Ecosystem Of Expertise
“At Beckley Retreats, our psilocybin retreat programs incorporate practices from global wisdom traditions as well as clinically-informed approaches to psychedelic preparation, immersion, and integration. Our world-class team of facilitators helps our participants to reconnect with themselves, others, and the natural world. Our program is designed to facilitate lasting change, supporting participants in feeling prepared and equipped to sustain new ways of seeing, being, and doing in the world.”
Use code DESIGN500 for a generous $500 off on their 2025 offerings.
https://www.beckleyretreats.com/
FROM OUR PARTNERS
reMind Psychedelics Business Forum – Dec 3, Las Vegas, US
At reMind Psychedelics Business Forum, you’ll get practical business advice and an insider’s view of the market trends, policy updates, and latest developments guiding this space forward. Get exactly what you need to feel confident as an entrepreneur or licensed professional.
Use the code REMPSYCHDESIGN10 for 10% off
Learn about:
New policies, and Business Opportunities
Microdosing and Mental Performace
Synthetic vs. Botanical Medicines
Psychedelic-Adjacent Products and the Power of Plant Medicine
Navigating State-Level Opportunities
Zendo SIT Course Weekend Intensive – Dec 7-8, Online
Psychedelic Care and Harm Reduction Live Course
An expert-led course about psychedelic support and compassionate, ethical care.
Master the core principles of psychedelic care with Zendo Project’s SIT (Sitting and Integration Training) course. Zendo Projects training program, crafted by leaders in psychedelic therapy and education, combines evidence-based methods with insights from years of hands-on experience.
Learn essential skills in harm reduction, navigating challenging psychedelic experiences, and supporting the integration process. Whether you’re new to psychedelic care or already an experienced practitioner, this course offers a comprehensive framework for providing effective support to individuals in altered states.
Use the code COMMUNITY for 10% off
ENGAGE
Psychedelics Design Conference – Dec 11, Online
New speakers announced!
Explore the intersection of psychedelics and design at our partners' third online conference on December 11, 2024. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your perspective and get inspired already for everything that lies ahead in the new year! Tickets are just $28 – and yes, you will also receive the recordings to watch everything in your own time. See you there!
Learn more and get your ticket today
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