SetSet with April Pride

123. Microdosing for Midlife: Emotional Resilience(Week 6)Week 6 explores extinction learning, emotional resilience, and how microdosing may support gradual rewiring of fear-based patterns in midlife.Episode SummaryThis episode is part Week 6 of Microdosing for Midlife—a 12-part audio companion to the original Substack series.In this conversation, April explores emotional resilience not as toughness or avoidance, but as the ability to update old responses in real time. Using entrepreneurship as metaphor, she reflects on how repeated attempts, setbacks, and recalibration build resilience—and how microdosing psilocybin intersects with that process.The episode introduces the neuroscience concept of extinction learning—the brain’s ability to replace outdated fear responses with more informed ones. Rather than positioning microdosing as a cure or shortcut, April frames it as a catalyst for noticing habitual reactions, pausing before reenactment, and building new neural pathways through integration.If the written post focused on the science and story, this episode explores how resilience is practiced—not performed—especially in midlife when old coping strategies no longer serve.🔵 Key TakeawaysWhat extinction learning means in practical termsHow emotional resilience differs from emotional suppressionWhy microdosing is described as a catalyst—not a quick fixThe role of integration in reinforcing new neural pathwaysHow midlife transitions resurface habitual responsesWhy subtle shifts often matter more than dramatic breakthroughsOne reflection to carry into the week ahead🔵 Timestamps[00:00] Episode opening[02:00] Entrepreneurship and resilience as metaphor[04:30] Extinction learning explained[07:00] Personal example of breaking habitual responses[10:00] Integration and grounding practices[13:00] Midlife transitions and emotional awareness[16:00] What to carry forward🔵 ResourcesMicro-Psyched 12-Week Microdosing ProgramWomen in the Wild gatherings - Reserve your spot in SeattleUpcoming Psychedelic Salon ticketsFollow April on SubstackOriginal Microdosing for Midlife Substack post: https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/microdosing-psilocybin-for-emotional-resilienceHosted by April Pride @aprilpride_Follow on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset Get full access to SetSet with April Pride at aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe

121. Microdosing for Midlife: Stability & Nervous System Change (Week 4)Week 4 of Microdosing for Midlife explores how nervous system stability shapes identity, growth, and long-term change in midlife.Episode SummaryThis episode is part Week 4 of Microdosing for Midlife—a 12-part audio companion to the original Substack series.In this conversation, April expands on what it actually means to feel stable while undergoing change. Midlife often brings visible transitions—shifts in hormones, identity, relationships, ambition—but underneath those external markers is something quieter: the nervous system recalibrating itself. Rather than focusing on dramatic breakthroughs, this episode examines how safety, steadiness, and subtle internal shifts create sustainable growth.Instead of chasing intensity, April reflects on how microdosing can support capacity—capacity to tolerate discomfort, to remain present in uncertainty, and to integrate insight gradually. The real work is not in peak moments. It’s in the ability to return to baseline without abandoning yourself.🔵 Key TakeawaysHow nervous system stability shapes long-term growth in midlifeWhy intensity is often mistaken for progressHow subtle shifts accumulate into meaningful identity changeWhat “capacity building” looks like beyond insightA reflection question to carry into the week ahead🔵 Timestamps[00:00] Episode opening[02:00] Framing the week’s theme[08:30] Nervous system stability vs intensity[15:00] Capacity building in midlife[22:00] Integration reflection[27:00] What to carry forward🔵 ResourcesMicro-Psyched 12-Week Microdosing ProgramUpcoming Psychedelic Salon ticketsFollow April on SubstackOriginal Microdosing for Midlife Substack post:https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/vagus-nerve-menopause-psilocybin-intuition-body-trustHosted by April Pride @aprilpride_ Follow on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset Get full access to SetSet with April Pride at aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe

119. Microdosing for Midlife: Brain Science of Change (Week 2)Week 2 of Microdosing for Midlife explores estrogen, menopause, hormone therapy, and cognitive health—plus how psilocybin supports neuroplasticity.Episode SummaryThis episode marks Week 2 of Microdosing for Midlife, a 12-week audio series exploring how psilocybin microdosing for women intersects with hormonal change, emotional regulation, and cognitive resilience during midlife.In this installment, April Pride expands on a central question that surfaced after Week 1: whether being “spared” classic menopausal symptoms—or choosing not to take hormone replacement therapy—puts women at greater risk for cognitive decline. Drawing from current research, April reframes the fear-driven narrative around menopause, estrogen, and dementia, offering a more nuanced and reassuring understanding of what actually shapes long-term brain health.The episode also explores estrogen’s role as a neuroprotectant, how the midlife brain becomes more vulnerable to stress-based patterning, and why psychedelics like psilocybin may support neuroplasticity by softening rigid survival scripts. Through personal reflection and lived experience, April illustrates how subtle shifts in perception—not emotional erasure—can change one’s relationship to anxiety, grief, and uncertainty.This episode functions as an audio companion to the written Week 2 essay, adding scientific context, integration insights, and real-life application without replacing the original post.🔵 Key Takeaways• Menopause as a neurological transition, not just a hormonal one• Estrogen’s role in cognition, mood, and neuroprotection• Why high symptom burden—not absence of symptoms—is linked to later cognitive risk• What hormone therapy does and does not do for long-term cognition• The default mode network and midlife rumination patterns• Psychedelics, neuroplasticity, and loosening fear-based survival scripts• Microdosing as a tool for integration rather than emotional suppression🔵 Timestamps[00:00] Reflections on Psychedelic Salon and Women in the Wild[02:30] Introducing Week 2 and the HRT cognition question[03:45] Menopausal symptoms and cognitive risk[05:00] What hormone therapy research actually shows[06:30] Estrogen as a neuroprotectant[08:30] Brain changes during midlife[10:00] Psychedelics and neuroplasticity[11:30] Personal reflections on anxiety and action[13:30] Reflection questions for listeners[15:00] Micro-Psyched program overview and what’s next🔵 Additional ResourcesOriginal Week 2 post on SubstackEpisode 55: Ketamine-Assisted Therapy: Brain Effects ExplainedWomen in the Wild - Reserve your spot! Learn more about this episode: https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/microdosing-for-midlife-estrogen-cognitionHosted by April PrideSubscribe for April’s newsletter on Substack at https://aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe or at getsetset.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset Get full access to SetSet with April Pride at aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe

117. Ibogaine Therapy Safety & Ethics: What Responsible Care Really Looks LikeA grounded conversation on ibogaine therapy safety and ethics—covering medical oversight, risks, integration, and responsible psychedelic care.Episode SummaryIbogaine is often described as a breakthrough for addiction, trauma, and PTSD—but it’s also one of the most medically complex psychedelic therapies in use today. In this episode, April Pride sits down with Tom Feegel and Talia Eisenberg, co-founders of Beond Ibogaine, to explore what ethical, medically supported ibogaine care actually requires.Together, they unpack the difference between iboga and ibogaine, why cardiac screening and clinical monitoring are non-negotiable, and how integration—not intensity—is where real change happens. Talia shares her personal recovery story, Tom explains Beond’s safety-first model, and April grounds the conversation in harm reduction, nervous system care, and responsibility. This episode will help you understand the real risks, the emerging science, and the ethical questions shaping ibogaine’s future—without hype or shortcuts.🔵 Key TakeawaysIboga and ibogaine are not the same—and that distinction matters for safety, dosing, and ethics.Ibogaine carries real cardiac risk and should never be used without medical screening and monitoring.Post-acute withdrawal can last weeks or months and is a major relapse risk without support.Whole-plant medicines vary in potency; predictability is a safety issue, not a comfort preference.Integration starts before the medicine and continues long after—it’s a way of living, not a checklist.🔵 Timestamps[00:00] Safety disclaimer, why harm reduction matters, and setting the context[01:00] Iboga vs. ibogaine: what’s the difference and why it matters[03:00] Tom’s story: trauma, recovery, and building the place that didn’t exist[07:30] Talia’s first ibogaine experience and the risks of unregulated care[09:00] What post-acute withdrawal really looks like[12:00] Spiritual seeking, Osho, and early inner guidance[14:00] “Root medicine” and why support after the experience is critical[17:00] Potency variability: mushrooms, cannabis, and iboga compared[18:00] Cardiac risk, medical screening, and ethical boundaries[23:00] PTSD, TBI, and what the emerging research suggests[27:00] Cannabis use disorder, ketamine, kratom, and modern dependency patterns[31:00] What a medically supported ibogaine program actually includes[34:00] Integration vs. activation: turning insight into lived change[38:00] How to evaluate whether ibogaine care is right for you🔵 GuestsFollow Tom Feegel & Talia Eisenberg: Beond Ibogaine | https://beondibogaine.com | https://www.instagram.com/beondibogaine🔵 Additional ResourcesSetSet Psychedelic CardsWomen in the Wild applicationLearn more about this episode: https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/ibogaine-therapy-safety-and-ethicsHosted by April PrideSubscribe for April’s newsletter on Substack at https://aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe or at getsetset.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset Get full access to SetSet with April Pride at aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe

115. 5-MeO-DMT Experience ExplainedA grounded conversation on the 5-MeO-DMT experience—how it affects the nervous system, how it differs from DMT, and why safety and integration matter.Episode SummaryWhat is 5-MeO-DMT, and why do people describe it so differently from other psychedelics?In this episode, April Pride sits down with licensed clinicians and facilitators Roger and Dustin to explore the 5-MeO-DMT experience through both lived experience and emerging neuroscience. Often referred to as the God molecule psychedelic, 5-MeO-DMT is widely described as a non-visual psychedelic experience—one that quiets the nervous system rather than amplifying imagery, stories, or symbols.Together, they break down 5-MeO-DMT vs DMT, explain how this compound interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, and discuss why many people report profound ego dissolution, nervous system regulation, and long-term shifts in how they experience safety and connection.This episode also centers women and psychedelics, examining why women—particularly those who have spent years in control, caretaking, or emotional labor—may feel especially drawn to this form of surrender-based medicine.If you’re seeking grounded insight into psychedelic harm reduction, integration after 5-MeO-DMT, and what makes this medicine fundamentally different from other psychedelic experiences, this conversation is an essential listen.🔵 Key TakeawaysThe 5-MeO-DMT experience is often felt rather than seen, with little to no visuals or narrative contentUnlike classic psychedelics, 5-MeO-DMT is widely described as a non-visual psychedelic experienceUnderstanding 5-MeO-DMT vs DMT is critical—many vape pens labeled “DMT” contain N-N-DMT, not 5-MeO-DMT5-MeO-DMT strongly activates both 5-HT2A and 5-HT1A serotonin receptors, impacting cognition and nervous system regulationThe medicine often quiets the nervous system rather than stimulating imagery or meaning-makingSynthetic 5-MeO-DMT allows for more precise dosing and supports harm reduction by protecting the Sonoran Desert toadWomen may experience particular resonance due to lifelong patterns of regulation, control, and emotional laborPsychedelic integration after 5-MeO-DMT is essential; the effects unfold over time, not just during the sessionScreening, contraindications, and aftercare are non-negotiable components of responsible psychedelic use🔵 Timestamps[00:00] What people mean when they describe the God molecule psychedelic[02:10] How Roger and Dustin came to work with 5-MeO-DMT[03:36] Why this is a non-visual psychedelic experience[04:22] Synthetic vs toad-derived 5-MeO-DMT and harm reduction[06:57] Why some therapeutic “stuckness” responds differently to 5-MeO-DMT[08:28] Serotonin receptors and psychedelics: the double-door explanation[10:00] Nervous system regulation and surrender, especially for women[11:14] Gamma brainwaves, endogenous release, and embodied remembering[13:41] April’s experience with DMT vapes and common confusion[16:19] Clear distinctions between 5-MeO-DMT vs DMT[18:30] Health risks, medications, and serotonin syndrome[20:30] Ketamine, DMT, and the limits of comparison[22:53] Why women and psychedelics intersect uniquely here[23:21] Integration, meaning-making, and what comes after the experience🔵 GuestsRoger & DustinLicensed clinicians and facilitators at Sky Mountain Retreats, specializing in carefully screened, harm-reduction-focused 5-MeO-DMT experiences with an emphasis on preparation, precision dosing, and long-term integration.🔵 Additional ResourcesSetSet Psychedelic CardsWomen in the Wild applicationLearn more about this episode: https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/5-meo-dmt-experience-nervous-system-safetyHosted by April PrideSubscribe for April’s newsletter on Substack at https://aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe or at getsetset.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset Get full access to SetSet with April Pride at aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe

113. Psychedelic Law in Seattle: What’s Actually Legal in 2025?SetSet Salon breaks down psychedelic law in Seattle with attorneys Perry Salzhauer & Daniel Shortt—what the entheogen resolution covers, what it doesn’t, and the risks it creates.Episode SummaryMost people think Seattle has legalized psychedelics. It hasn’t—at all. In this episode, recorded live at SetSet’s Psychedelic Salon at Town Hall Seattle, host April Pride sits down with attorneys Perry Salzhauer and Daniel Shortt—two of the most respected legal voices shaping psychedelic and cannabis policy in the U.S.Together, they break down psychedelic law in Seattle, clarify what the city’s 2021 Entheogen Resolution really allows (and what it absolutely does not), and explain the risks around gifting, cultivating, and even discussing psychedelics in a professional setting.If you’re microdosing quietly, contemplating a community container, or considering any psychedelic-related offering, this episode is your essential legal literacy guide.Frequently Asked Questions About Psychedelic Law in Seattle1. Is psilocybin legal in Seattle?No. Psilocybin is still illegal under Washington state and federal law. Seattle’s 2021 resolution merely deprioritizes enforcement for certain activities such as possession, gifting, and small-scale cultivation.2. What does “decriminalized” actually mean in Seattle?Seattle has not decriminalized psychedelics. Instead, the City Council instructed law enforcement to place the lowest priority on pursuing cases involving noncommercial entheogen possession, gifting, and cultivation.3. Can I legally buy mushrooms in Seattle?No. Any form of purchasing—even disguised transactions like “stickers,” “sandwiches,” or “cover charges that include mushrooms”—falls outside the resolution and can still lead to prosecution.4. Is gifting psychedelics allowed?Gifting without any compensation—money, labor, products, services, or “value”—is deprioritized for enforcement.However, anything that resembles a commercial transaction can increase legal risk.5. Can I grow mushrooms at home in Seattle?Cultivation is formally deprioritized under the city resolution, but still illegal under state and federal law. There is no legal safe harbor for personal cultivation.6. Are psychedelic therapy sessions legal in Washington?No. Washington has no legal pathway for psychedelic-assisted therapy. Colorado currently offers the safest regulated route for professionals seeking to integrate entheogens into clinical practice.🔵 Resources- Upcoming Psychedelic Salon at Town Hall Seattle- SetSet’s Psychedelic Toolkit - Micro-Psyched 12-Week Microdosing Program- Perry Salzhauer & Daniel Shortt: Attorneys at Salzhauer & Shortt | salzhauershortt.comLearn more about this episode: https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/psychedelic-law-seattle-entheogen-decriminalizationHosted by April PrideSubscribe for April’s newsletter on Substack at https://aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe or at getsetset.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset Get full access to SetSet with April Pride at aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe

111. Trip Report: Kanna vs. MDMA Plus How Molly Effs With Your Sleep For WeeksWhat if you could feel more connected, relaxed, and joyful—without alcohol or MDMA? In this episode, I talk to Andrew Weisse, founder of getKanna and writer of Substack's The Psychedelic Blog, about the mood-enhancing, heart-opening power of Kanna, a South African plant that’s gaining popularity as a functional empathogen. We discuss its chemical makeup, traditional use, and modern applications for social connection, romantic intimacy, and MDMA replacement. This is a big one for anyone exploring a sustainable way to engage with psychedelics.🔵 Key Takeaways- Kanna enhances emotional openness, connection, and calm without a crash or sleep disruption- It’s a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, not a psychedelic—legal and gentle- Unlike MDMA, Kanna is non-depleting and can be taken more regularly- April shares her sober-in-Seattle story with Kanna as her “plus one”- Andrew offers insights on sourcing, dosing, and why alcohol-free connection is the futureLearn more about this episode, including guests and resources on Substack: https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/mdma-vs-kanna-trip-report-with-andrew-weisse-the-psychedelic-blogHosted by April PrideFeaturing Andrew Weisse, getKanna and The Psychedelic BlogSubscribe for April’s newsletter on Substack at https://aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe or at getsetset.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset Get full access to SetSet with April Pride at aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe

How MDMA Is Transforming Love, Aging & GriefMany people think MDMA is a party drug. What if it’s actually a medicine for seniors?Episode 111 of the SetSet Podcast. Join us for this deeply personal, science-backed live recording of our August virtual Psychedelic Salon. I was joined by Charley Wininger, licensed therapist and author of Listening to Ecstasy, and his wife Shelly, who introduced Charley to MDMA and inadvertently changed both their lives.This episode unpacks how MDMA has enhanced their relationship, deepened their intimacy, helped process grief, and brought unexpected youthful vitality back into their lives. We touch on everything from safe use protocols to sex, aging, grief, and even using MDMA to support decision-making during divorce.It’s a joyful, intimate conversation rooted in love, community, and years of experience. A must-listen for anyone curious about the intersection of psychedelics, aging, and emotional healing.🔵 Key Takeaways- MDMA can bring back vitality, joy, and intimacy in aging couples.- Grief and trauma are central to many people’s suffering—and MDMA can offer a path to healing.- Proper protocols and post-use care make a huge difference in experience and recovery.- Seniors face unique considerations around prescription meds and safety—but age isn’t a disqualifier.- Community, connection, and shared experiences amplify MDMA’s therapeutic effects.🔵 Timestamps[00:00] Introduction by April Pride[01:00] Charley and Shelly’s love story and MDMA origin[04:00] MDMA for connection, not just therapy[07:00] Microdosing vs. full doses for aging bodies[10:00] Reclaiming joy and youth in your 60s and 70s[13:00] Protocols, safety, and navigating medications[17:00] Using MDMA to address grief after major loss[22:00] Intimacy, sex, and MDMA in long-term relationships[27:00] Can MDMA help save or end a marriage?[31:00] FDA, safety concerns, and overlooked age groups[37:00] Community healing: Potlucks, shared rolls, and one pulse[41:00] Advice for couples using MDMA without a guide[49:00] Final reflections and upcoming events🔵 Featured GuestsCharley Wininger – Licensed therapist, author of Listening to Ecstasy📘 charleywininger.comShelly Wininger – Former critical care nurse, cannabis advocate, and spiritual explorerSubscribe to get SetSet with psychedelics!Learn more about this episode, including guests and resources on https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/psilocybin-mushrooms-beyond-the-tripHosted by April PrideSign up for April’s newsletter on Substack at https://aprilpride.substack.com/ or at getsetset.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset Get full access to SetSet with April Pride at aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe

108. Why Bong Design Matters for Modern Women: Esther Ramirez from Session GoodsWhat if your bong could live on your coffee table—without shame or splashback? In this 4/20 Easter special, April Pride sits down with Esther Lenore Ramirez, co-founder and CEO of Session Goods, to explore how minimalist bong design supports women who want elegant, intentional tools for cannabis. From design trade-offs (no percs, no ice pinches) to the bong’s global history, this episode reclaims what it means to be a woman who smokes. Esther shares how clean glassware, thoughtful accessories, and user-friendly dimensions offer a new kind of cannabis ritual—especially for women coming back to the plant after a long hiatus.🔵 Key Takeaways-Designing a bong for your lifestyle means no splash guards, no logos—just clean lines and easy cleanup.-Session Goods took cues from wine decanters and candle bases to create pieces that blend in beautifully.-Glass fuming, color limitations, and mouthpiece angles all matter—especially when lipstick and group sharing are in play.-The word “bong” likely comes from Thai, but the evolution of glassblowing gave us the modern version we know today.-Homegrown cannabis or mushroom gifts add emotional connection and storytelling to the ritual of use.Learn more about this episode, including guests and resources on substack:https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/modern-bong-design-for-women-who-smokeHosted by April PrideSign up for April’s newsletter on Substack at https://aprilpride.substack.com/ or at getsetset.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset Get full access to SetSet with April Pride at aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe

106. Natural Psychedelics and the Healing Power of CommunityWhat if the most potent medicine isn’t just the mushroom or the ceremony—but the community that holds you through it? In this soul-stirring conversation, host April Pride continues her dialogue with healer and teacher Satya on the role of natural psychedelics in helping women heal trauma and reconnect with their core selves. From the roots of survival instinct to the chemistry of trust, they explore why healing doesn't happen in isolation—and how community care, spiritual insight, and ethical facilitation are essential to any psychedelic journey. Whether you're new to plant medicine or rethinking your own integration path, this episode grounds the mystical in the everyday and reminds us: the real work happens after the trip.🔵 Key Takeaways-Natural psychedelics help dissolve survival-based trauma that keeps women disconnected from themselves and others.-True healing starts after the retreat. Integration, accountability, and sustained connection are what turn insights into change.-Community support is non-negotiable. Healing happens in safe, nonjudgmental spaces—not in isolation.-Facilitator integrity is critical. Training, experience, and humility must precede serving psychedelic medicine.-We must reframe our cultural obsession with more. Sometimes awe, not intensity, is the deepest form of medicine.Learn more about this episode, including guests and resources on substack:https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/natural-psychedelics-for-trauma-healingHosted by April PrideSign up for April’s newsletter on Substack at https://aprilpride.substack.com/ or at getsetset.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset Get full access to SetSet with April Pride at aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe

104. How Microdosing for Women Rewires Habit, Hormone, and Healing CyclesHow does a microdose change a life? In this powerful conversation, April Pride returns with part two of her interview with guide Sand Symes to unpack what really happens when women begin a psychedelic microdosing protocol. From rewiring somatic patterns to clearing menopausal brain fog, this episode explores how subtle shifts lead to seismic inner changes. Sand shares her personal experience as well as insights from guiding others through emotional healing with psychedelics. Expect science-backed nuance, spiritual depth, and hard-won clarity on how to start integrating psychedelics into a sustainable practice—especially for women navigating midlife. Whether you're microdosing out of curiosity or crisis, this episode offers community and guidance on your path forward.🔵 Key Takeaways-Microdosing can quietly interrupt deeply held somatic habits, from sugar cravings to codependent relationships.-Hormonal shifts like menopause can be softened by psychedelics—Sand describes brain fog lifting mid-protocol.-Integration isn’t optional. It's how the medicine keeps working long after the last dose.-Doing it alone? Not ideal. Community is key to meaningful psychedelic integration, especially for women.-Microdosing supports spiritual clarity, emotional regulation, and better decisions—one subtle shift at a time.Learn more about this episode, including guests and resources on substack:https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/microdosing-for-womenHosted by April PrideSign up for April’s newsletter on Substack at https://aprilpride.substack.com/ or at getsetset.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset Get full access to SetSet with April Pride at aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe

102. Is At-Home Ketamine Treatment Safe for Women with Trauma?In this powerful second conversation with author and mental health advocate Kaia Roman, host April Pride explores the clinical, emotional, and cultural dimensions of at-home ketamine treatment—particularly for women navigating trauma, depression, and midlife transitions. With brutal honesty and personal insight, the two discuss dissociation, PTSD, accessibility, and whether at-home ketamine is a fit for women with a history of sexual trauma. This episode doesn’t shy away from the hard questions: Can ketamine help with suicidal ideation? What’s the difference between medical and spiritual dissociation? How do we keep these treatments safe, affordable, and trauma-informed? Whether you're ketamine-curious or rethinking your mental health toolkit, this episode delivers the science, story, and support you need.🔵 Key Takeaways-Ketamine therapy offers rapid relief for depression, PTSD, and even suicidal ideation—especially when traditional meds fail.-At-home ketamine treatment must be guided and never done alone, especially for trauma survivors.-Dissociation in ketamine can be healing—not retraumatizing—when properly supported.-Initial protocols often require 4–6 sessions in 2–3 weeks, with boosters tailored to the individual.-Ketamine is a safe, flexible tool with almost no side effects—but it's not a one-and-done solution.Learn more about this episode, including guests and resources on substack:https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/at-home-ketamine-for-womenHosted by April PrideSign up for April’s newsletter on Substack at https://aprilpride.substack.com/ or at getsetset.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset Get full access to SetSet with April Pride at aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe

100. 100 Episodes In: What We’ve Learned About Psychedelic Therapy for WomenThis milestone episode is a love letter to our listeners. April Pride marks 100 episodes of SetSet by reflecting on what’s changed—and what still needs changing—in the conversation around psychedelic therapy for women. From the rise of ketamine clinics to our monthly psychedelic integration Salons, SetSet continues to fill the critical gaps in education, safety, and community. In this episode, April reads listener reviews, previews our latest Salon on psychedelics and depression, and shares why science alone isn't enough without lived experience and practical tools for transformation.🔵 Key Takeaways-100 episodes in, the need for clear, science-backed education around psychedelics is more urgent than ever.-Listener feedback highlights SetSet as a top resource on ketamine for depression—more helpful than many providers.-Integration is essential: taking the medicine is only the beginning of the transformation process.-SetSet’s monthly Salon series and downloadable guides bridge the gap between clinical knowledge and real life.-Community reviews show that honest, digestible education helps listeners feel less alone and more empowered.Learn more about this episode, including guests and resources on substack:https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/psychedelic-therapy-for-womenHosted by April PrideSign up for April’s newsletter on Substack at https://aprilpride.substack.com/ or at getsetset.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset Get full access to SetSet with April Pride at aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe