Welcome to Psychedelics Design – where design meets psychedelics!
This week on the podcast, I sit down with Brandon Deroche, founder of Propeller—a platform that’s helped major artists drive social impact campaigns for nearly a decade.
In 2022, he launched PORTAL, an initiative blending culture, community, and advocacy to destigmatize psychedelics and support nonprofit work in the space.
Before Brandon was Executive Director of Incubus’s Make Yourself Foundation, raising millions for causes the band cared about. And before all that, he was on tour with his own band The Underwater, where he first saw the power of music to move people—and has been using that insight for good ever since.
We explore how Brandon’s background as a touring musician shaped his approach to social impact, and how his latest initiative, PORTAL, uses events, digital campaigns, and partnerships to normalize psychedelic use and support nonprofit work in the space.
From collaborating with major festivals to educating his own family on psychedelics, Brandon brings both strategy and sincerity to a complex conversation. Whether you're an artist, advocate, or just curious—this one's worth a listen.
Key Takeaways from the Episode
Designing for Action in the Attention Economy
In an age of distraction, Brandon emphasizes the importance of incentives, design, and storytelling to encourage meaningful engagement—like winning concert tickets or exclusive experiences in exchange for taking action.Artists as Cultural Bridges
Many artists use psychedelics privately but hesitate to speak publicly due to brand restrictions or corporate affiliations. Brandon sees opportunities to support those willing to step forward—creating space for more honest, destigmatized dialogue.Sustainable, Authentic Impact
Propeller operates as a public benefit corporation, bootstrapped without venture funding, proving that values-aligned platforms can thrive without compromising on integrity or creative control.
Genius Video, Portal’s Bicycle Day – Psychedelic Puppet Show – as mentioned in this episode:
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Propeller
Propeller is a company creating social impact campaigns for some of the largest personalities in the world.
Portal
Portal is an initiative to destigmatize the responsible use of psychedelics, combining culture, events, community, and advocacy to inspire inner action while raising money and awareness for psychedelic nonprofits.
Imagine yourself in a peaceful Dutch meadow just outside of Amsterdam, guided through a safe, intentional psilocybin experience with world-class facilitators and operational support. This could be in more than just your imagination, ‘cause we’re giving away the chance to do that right here.
This 7-week journey with @synthesisinstitute includes two legal psilocybin ceremonies, expert prep and integration support, nourishing meals, and roundtrip travel—all designed for deep inner transformation.
Giveaway closes on August 12, 2025. Visit propeller.la/synthesis2025 to learn more and enter to begin your journey!
NEWS
‘Above The Influencer’: The Psychedelic Content Creators Pushing The Culture Forward–High Times
HIGH TIMES recently published an in-depth feature titled “Above the Influencer: The Psychedelic Content Creators Pushing the Culture Forward,” profiling creators who are shaping psychedelic culture beyond traditional influencer marketing. The article spotlights individuals and projects reshaping public perception, grounded in authenticity, creativity, and cultural integrity. It goes beyond celebrity status to illuminate those genuinely contributing to community building and sustainable growth within the psychedelics ecosystem.
Created by journalist Dennis Walker , the piece emphasizes how these content creators drive innovation, foster meaningful dialogue, and challenge stereotypes, contributing meaningfully to the broader movement.
Thank you to High Times and Dennis Walker for spotlighting voices committed to integrity, creativity, and genuine impact. We’re inspired to continue this work with even greater energy and intention 🫶
FROM OUR FRIENDS & PARTNERS
We Are Liquid Culture Spotify Playlist
Enjoy the We Are Liquid Culture Spotify Playlist—a groovy, psychedelic joyride through the cosmos and back. Packed with music from Liquid Culture’s own Nutritious, Dylan Meek, and Kukuni, plus funky gems from Chromeo, Tame Impala, Poolside, Crazy P, LCD Soundsystem, and more, this playlist is your entry to a sonic solar excursion where vibes shine bright.
Curated by Liquid Culture—a revolutionary record label and artist collective that’s all about fueling creativity and showcasing art that moves you.
For more info: https://www.liquidculturerecords.com
