Minds on Mushrooms

Can MDMA Save Relationships? A Therapist With 50 Years of Experience Explains

In this episode of Minds on Mushrooms, I sit down with psychotherapist and relationship expert Jonathan Robinson, who has explored MDMA both personally and professionally for more than 50 years.
Together we explore how MDMA works in the brain and body, why it’s often described as a heart-opening medicine, and how thoughtful set, setting, and emotional safety can create powerful opportunities for connection and healing between partners.
We talk about the science, the emotional openness this medicine can create, and the relational possibilities that emerge when defenses lower and compassion rises.
In this conversation, we explore:• How MDMA affects fear and trust in the brain • Why the medicine can increase empathy and emotional connection • The importance of preparation, intention, and environment • How couples can create supportive spaces for deeper conversations • What decades of experience reveal about MDMA and relationships
If you're curious about MDMA-assisted therapy, psychedelic science, or new approaches to relationship healing, this conversation offers a thoughtful and grounded perspective.
Resources Mentioned
📖 Jonathan Robinson’s book Ecstasy as Couples Therapy: Using MDMA to Heal Conflict and Deepen Your Relationship
https://www.amazon.com/Ecstasy-Couples-Therapy-Conflict-Relationship-ebook/dp/B0G5HWTSJT
About Jonathan Robinson
• 40+ years of experience with MDMA-assisted therapy • Trained over 500 clinicians through MDMAtraining.net • Author of 16 books on communication, trauma, MDMA, and healing • New York Times bestselling author (Communication Miracles for Couples) • Began conducting MDMA therapy research in 1984 for his master’s thesis • Featured on Oprah, CNN, and over 200 podcasts Websites • https://FindingHappiness.com • https://XTCasMedicine.com • https://XTCforCouples.net
Explore More
🌐 Minds on Mushrooms https://www.mindsonmushrooms.com
🌿 North Node https://www.explorenorthnode.com
📞 Book an Alignment Call https://calendly.com/explorenorthnode/45min
Listen to Minds on Mushrooms Minds on Mushrooms is available on: • YouTube • Apple Podcasts • Spotify
The show explores the science, healing, and human stories behind psychedelic medicines and conscious living.
Hosted by Maggie Kirkwood, psychedelic practitioner and integration guide for intentional inner journeys.
⚠️ This episode is shared for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice.

From Breaking Point to Breakthrough: Psychedelics & the Reinvention of a Marriage | Jay Fiset

In this deeply honest and expansive conversation, I sit down with Jay Fiset, who shares how reaching a breaking point in his marriage became the catalyst for profound personal and relational transformation. Jay and his wife, Cory Fiset, have been in relationship for 37 years. After 25 years of marriage, they found themselves at a crossroads that required radical honesty, individual healing, and a willingness to reinvent both themselves and their relationship from the inside out. Jay opens up about his own inward journey first, taking responsibility for his healing, meeting old patterns with clarity, and learning how to show up more truthfully. Throughout our conversation, I deeply appreciate Jay’s transparency in how he shares his lived experience as a psychedelic educator and guide, speaking openly about the responsibility, intention, and integrity this work requires. Psychedelics became a gateway for this work, offering insight, emotional access, and aligned action. As his inner work deepened, that healing naturally began to ripple into the relationship. Eventually, psychedelics also became a shared entry point for both Jay and Cory. Jay speaks candidly about the role MDMA played as a major catalyst, not as a cure or shortcut, but as a tool that supported emotional safety, openness, and deeply honest communication. Through this intentional work, they were able to soften defenses, rebuild trust, and come back together in a more transparent, authentic, and connected partnership. Today, Cory and Jay are a husband-and-wife team and Certified Psychedelic Guides who focus specifically on supporting couples. Drawing upon more than 30 years of experience facilitating intensive personal development programs, individual coaching, experiential workshops, and couples retreats, they now offer intentional, safe, and intimacy-enhancing medicine experiences for committed couples. Their work is designed for couples who want to discover themselves more fully, express truth with care, and deepen emotional and relational connection, not by bypassing the work, but by meeting it together with intention and integrity. This episode explores: * Why individual healing is the foundation of relational repair * Psychedelics as catalysts for insight, not replacements for the work * MDMA’s role in emotional safety, trust, and intimacy * Reinventing long-term relationships without starting over * What it truly means to heal together while honoring personal responsibility If you’re curious about how psychedelics can support deeper self-awareness, and how that awareness can strengthen intimacy, honesty, and connection within long-term relationships, this conversation offers a grounded, real-world perspective on healing from the inside out. ✨ This conversation is shared for educational and informational purposes and emphasizes intention, responsibility, and integration. 🔗 Explore Jay & Cory’s Work If this conversation resonates and you would like to explore Jay and Cory’s offerings, you can learn more here: The Connection Experience – FAQs https://theconnectionexperience.love/faq Fireside Chat: The Connection Experience https://theconnectionexperience.love/firesidetce The Psychedelic Coach Accelerator, a 3-day immersive event https://psychedeliccoachaccelerator.com/ The Psychedelic Coaching Blueprint https://theconnectionexperience.love/blueprint-rp Couples Connection ++ Microdosing Protocol https://theconnectionexperience.love/couples-connection-microdosing Microdosing Products and Protocols https://theconnectionexperience.love/order 🌿If this episode stirred something in you, whether around relationships, self-inquiry, or intentional psychedelic work, you can explore my work through North Node, a private, consent-based practice focused on preparation, integration, and embodied change. Learn more at: 🌱 https://explorenorthnode.com 🌱 https://www.explorenorthnode.com/working-together If this speaks to you, trust that feeling. 🎧 Minds on Mushrooms is available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.Visit https://www.mindsonmushrooms.com to explore episodes, resources, and more.Mush love,
Maggie 

Kanna: A Legal Alternative to Alcohol & MDMA? | with Andrew Weiss

What if you could feel open, connected, and relaxed… without alcohol?
In this episode of Minds on Mushrooms, I sit down with Andrew Weiss, writer of The Psychedelic Blog, to explore kanna: a legal, mood-enhancing plant traditionally used for resilience, connection, and social ease.
Many people describe kanna as heart-opening and gently euphoric, similar to MDMA or a few drinks, but without the hangover or emotional crash.
We talk about what kanna actually feels like, how it works, and the story behind Get Kanna, Andrew’s thoughtfully crafted product designed for intentional, situational experiences like date nights, gatherings, music, or deeper connection.
If you’re rethinking your relationship with alcohol or curious about plant-based alternatives for feeling good in your body, this conversation is for you.
✨ Free shipping with code FRIENDS0FGK2
Get Kanna: https://www.getkanna.com/
IG: @getkanna
To learn more about working with Maggie:https://www.explorenorthnode.com/working-together
Book an Alignment Call
This episode is for educational purposes only and not medical advice.
Keywords: kanna, kanna plant, alcohol alternative, legal plant medicine, herbal mood enhancer, plant medicine podcast, psychedelic education, microdosing alternatives
 

Strength Without Armor: A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Professor on Avoidance, Core Wounds & Choosing Support

In this deeply honest conversation, I sit down with Derek Barlow, professor at Bellum Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in St. Paul, to talk about strength, avoidance, and what happens when the armor we build no longer serves us.
Derek shares how exploring psilocybin on his own brought awareness to long held patterns of avoidance and a core belief of unworthiness, and how realizing he could not navigate those discoveries alone led him to seek intentional, supported care.
We talk about what it means to stop running from yourself, to honor core wounds without judgment, and how choosing support can soften not only the inner world, but relationships as well. Derek opens up about how this work deepened his connection with his wife and reshaped his understanding of strength.
This episode is a grounded, responsible conversation about awareness, readiness, and the courage it takes to meet yourself honestly without having to do it alone.
Learn more about Bellum Brazilian Jiu-Jitsuhttps://bellumbrazilianjiujitsu.com/https://www.instagram.com/bellumbjjstpaul/
More information about working together through North Nodehttps://www.explorenorthnode.com/working-together

The Power of Surrender: How Losing It All Became Her Awakening

In this episode of Minds on Mushrooms, I sit down with Robyn, a writer, yogi, and transformation travel and spirit guide whose life once looked perfect on paper: marriage, career, stability. But inside, she felt numb and disconnected. Everything changed when she discovered her husband’s infidelity, losing both her sense of security and identity.
Rather than crumble, Robyn turned toward the unknown. She embarked on a solo trip to Thailand, a journey originally planned with her spouse, and from there chose not to return to her old life. That decision became the catalyst for a radical inner awakening. Through yoga, meditation, travel, and deep spiritual exploration, she transformed her grief into empowerment and rebuilt a life aligned with her truth.
In this episode, we explore: What it means to feel disconnected even when everything looks fine The impact of betrayal on identity, worth, and trust How travel can become a spiritual crucible for transformation The healing tools Robyn uses to realign and reconnect How she now helps others reclaim their light and begin their own journeys of transformation If you’ve ever felt stuck or like you’re living someone else’s life, this conversation will remind you that endings can become beginnings, and the unknown can hold more possibility than what you left behind.
Learn more about Robyn here:
www.wanderingtowardthelight.com
IG: @wanderingtowardthelight FB: @robyn.stimacLinktr.ee/wanderingtowardthelight
Explore her offerings here: 2026 Morocco Retreat Link: https://wanderingtowardthelight.com/morocco-yoga-retreat-2026/ 2026 Greece Retreat Link: https://www.yogasailingholidays.com/robyn-stimac
Minds on Mushrooms is hosted by Maggie Kirkwood, a certified psychedelic practitioner, integration coach, and founder of North Node — a platform for conscious education, microdosing support, and transformational healing. Through her podcast, courses, and coaching, Maggie helps others reconnect to their inner truth and navigate life’s transitions with clarity, intention, and trust.
Learn more or book an alignment call here: https://www.mindsonmushrooms.com/apply-now-form Explore her offerings here: https://www.mindsonmushrooms.com/work-with-me
✨✨✨ Minds on Mushrooms is available on YouTube, Apple and Spotify!

Magic Mushrooms and Women’s Health: Cycles, Fertility, and Libido

This one’s for the ladies! On today’s episode of Minds on Mushrooms, I’m joined by Jennifer Chesak, author of The Psilocybin Handbook for Women. Jennifer is a science and medical journalist whose work has appeared in The Washington Post, BBC, and more. She teaches in the journalism and publishing programs at Belmont University and brings a deeply researched perspective to the psychedelic conversation.
Together, we discuss how mushrooms uniquely affect women’s health, covering everything from regulating menstrual cycles and addressing infertility to boosting libido and easing sexual dysfunction. Jennifer shares insights from her book and explores how magic mushrooms, psychedelic therapy, and microdosing can support women’s mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing.
If you’ve ever wondered how natural psychedelics interact with women’s bodies and cycles, or you’re curious about the latest science on mushrooms and women’s health, this conversation is for you.
 
Resources and Links:
The Psilocybin Handbook for Women — Jennifer Chesak (Simon & Schuster)https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Psilocybin-Handbook-for-Women/Jennifer-Chesak/9781646044986
Jennifer’s website — http://www.jenniferchesak.com
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/jenchesak/
Bluesky — https://www.jenchesak.bsky.social
Twitter — https://twitter.com/jenchesak
Threads — https://www.threads.com/jenchesak
TikTok — https://www.tiktok.com/jenchesak
Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/jenchesak
LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferchesak/
 
About Minds on Mushrooms:
Minds on Mushrooms is hosted by Maggie Kirkwood, a certified psychedelic practitioner, integration coach, and the founder of North Node. Through storytelling, education, and community, the podcast explores how plant medicines can support healing, creativity, and connection.
✨ Want to work with Maggie? You can apply or book an alignment call here: mindsonmushrooms.com/apply-now-form
Follow along on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/__maggiekirkwood__/

Cacao as Teacher: Finding Peace in Chaotic Times with Bird Mejia

In this heart-centered episode, I sit down with medicine woman Bird Mieha, who works with the sacred plant of cacao. Together, we dive into the rich history of cacao, exploring how our ancestors once drank it and how this ancient medicine continues to open hearts today.
 
Bird guides us through the beauty of cacao ceremony, including a gentle cacao meditation, and shares wisdom on how this practice can help us regulate our nervous systems in the midst of chaotic times. We talk about the power of pause, the importance of returning to peace, and how cacao can support us in reconnecting with ourselves and each other.
 
This episode is an invitation to slow down, sip with intention, and remember the healing power of the heart.
 
For more on Bird and her offerings please visit:
Website: https://www.birdmejia.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/birdmejia/
 
About the Host
I’m Maggie Kirkwood, a Certified Psychedelic Practitioner, integration coach, and host of the Minds on Mushrooms podcast. My mission is to provide accessible education, integration, and community around psychedelics, plant teachers, and conscious living. Through conversations, coaching, and ceremony, I help people reconnect with their inner light, regulate their nervous systems, and find peace in chaotic times.
 
Connect with Me:
Work with me: https://www.mindsonmushrooms.com/apply-now-form
Website: https://www.mindsonmushrooms.com
IG: https://www.instagram.com/__maggiekirkwood__/
 
Minds on Mushrooms is available on YouTube, Apple and Spotify - thank you so much for your support!

Birthday Magic with Britleigh: Mushrooms, Miracles & Manifestation

This special birthday episode is pure joy, a casual and candid conversation with my dear mushroom-loving friend, Britleigh, about all the incredible ways magic mushrooms have shaped our lives. We dive into manifestation, healing from addiction, leaving unhealthy relationships, and stepping into deeper self-trust. To top it off, Britleigh’s brand-new miracle baby boy, just 4 months old, was with us the entire time, snuggled on top of her and not making a single peep.
 
This episode feels extra close to my heart, not only because it was filmed on my birthday, but also because it’s the first time I truly open up and share so much of my personal story. It’s fun, funky, and full of gratitude for the medicine.
 
✨ If this conversation inspires you, I invite you to check out Bloom, my one-month introduction to microdosing. Bloom is designed to help you safely and intentionally explore the magic of mushrooms with education, structure, and personalized support. Learn more and get started here: mindsonmushrooms.com/bloom-intro-to-microdosing
 
✨ I also guide one-on-one ceremonies, both virtually and in person. From gentle microdosing support to large-dose journeys for deeper healing and guidance, I work with people in all capacities. If you feel called, please reach out or book your alignment call: https://calendly.com/mindsonmushrooms-info/30min
 
✨ To learn more about Britleigh and her beautiful work, visit: https://www.britleighp.com/
 
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Mushrooms, Music & the Medicine of Frequency with Eber Rodriguez

In this heart-opening episode of Minds on Mushrooms, I welcome the incredibly talented Eber Rodriguez — a sound healer whose music carries the wisdom of the plants and the heartbeat of the Earth. I had the privilege of working alongside Eber during my psilocybin practitioner training in Costa Rica, where his grounded presence, ancestral wisdom, and transformative soundscapes touched every heart in the room. His ability to weave frequency, breath, and deep reverence for the medicine is nothing short of alchemy, and it’s an honor to share his voice and story with you today.
Eber has been walking the path of sacred plant medicine for most of his life, guided by the teachings of indigenous elders and mystical traditions that uncover the light of truth. A multi-instrumentalist and sound healer since 2018, he creates transformative spaces that integrate breath, sound, movement, and community — supporting the nervous system to release old patterns and return to balance. His work is rooted in both ancestral wisdom and the science of consciousness, activating deeper perception and reminding us of our innate connection to the Earth.
Together, we explore his journey into sound as medicine, his devotion to mushrooms and other sacred plants, and the way music can open the heart, move emotion, and restore harmony to the mind and body. Whether you are new to sound healing or already immersed in the plant medicine path, this conversation is an invitation to listen more deeply — to yourself, to the Earth, and to the frequencies that connect us all.
 
Connect with Eber Rodriguez:✨ Website: eberrodriguez.com✨ Instagram: @ignus.music✨🌿 LinkedIn: Eber Rodriguez
 
Connect with Me:To learn more about my work, upcoming events, and offerings, please visit mindsonmushrooms.com.You can explore my programs here: Work With Me.If something in you feels called to explore this path together, book an alignment call and let’s connect.
 
#MindsOnMushrooms
#SoundHealing
#PlantMedicine
#MusicAsMedicine
#HealingFrequencies
#PsychedelicHealing
#CeremonialMusic
#SacredMushrooms
#ConsciousnessExpansion
#HeartOpening
#InnerJourney
#AwakeningConsciousness

Jordan Power Music: Psychedelics, Queer Healing & His New Single

This week on Minds on Mushrooms, I sat down with the unapologetically bold and brilliantly queer Jordan Power. He's been a powerful voice in the podcasting world for years, and now he’s stepping into something even bigger: his musical debut.
Jordan’s new music, which has already attracted tens of thousands of followers on Spotify, wasn’t just written. It was received. During a powerful medicine ceremony, he accessed past lives, released stored grief, and unlocked years of repressed emotion.
What emerged was more than a voice. It was a deep remembrance of the creative force that had always been within him.
In our raw and electric conversation, we explore:
– How plant medicine helped him reconnect with his body and feel again
– Queerness as a portal to mystical healing and radical self-acceptance
– The alchemy of grief, illness, shame, and creative transformation – The law of attraction, meditation, and breathwork for manifestation
– Dating in this modern landscape as a mirror for growth
– And the power of discovering, honoring, and celebrating your unique gifts
If you’ve ever felt like your gifts were buried under shame or silence—this one’s for you.
Your gifts aren’t just meant to be discovered. They’re meant to be seen, lived, embodied—and celebrated.
Connect with Jordan Power: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jordanjpower/
Music on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/12uvc7Jyw3SUOpFtnKOUkX?si=cxvsCQAyRTmdbDEUHkjFQw
Minds on Mushrooms isn’t just a podcast—it’s a portal. A remembering. A place where ancient plant wisdom meets modern healing, and where real stories of transformation are told without shame.
Each episode is an invitation to explore the medicine of microdosing, conscious leadership, and expanded self-awareness. Whether you're here out of curiosity, in the midst of a breakthrough, or walking the long road of integration—you belong here.
And if something you hear speaks to you, trust that feeling. I’m Maggie Kirkwood—psychedelic integration coach, microdosing mentor, and fellow traveler on the path.
I offer 1:1 coaching and guided support for those ready to shift their relationship with alcohol, reconnect with their truth, or simply feel more grounded, clear, and connected.
The medicine opens the door—but the real work is integration. You don’t have to do it alone.
Book an alignment call or explore more at mindsonmushrooms.com.
Let’s walk this path together: https://www.mindsonmushrooms.com/calendly-1