Valentina & Gordon Wasson had a major influence on western mushroom culture. The Russian-born mycophile married the then mycophobic Gordon Wasson, a theme which quickly spun into a mutual passion for all things fungal. This important and delightful story was put into an illustrated book by the talented Brian Blomerth under the title Mycelium Wassonii.

Today on the show, we discuss the story as well as the congenial details that made this wonderful book happen. Enjoy some behind the scenes information about Brian and his life as an artist, some golden nuggets hidden within the book, unlikely factoids and delightful details.

Topics Covered:

• Valentina's influence on Gordon and ultimately catalyzing their trek to Mexico that shaped our culture today
• Brian's work flow as an illustrator and the finer things considered in his work
• How Brian conducted research for an underrepresented story
• Hidden gems to look for in Mycelium Wassonii

Show Notes:

• Get a copy of Mycelium Wassonii: https://shop.mexicansummer.com/product/brian-blomerth-mycelium-wassonii/
• Brian's website: https://www.brianblomerth.com/
• Mushrooms, Russia, and History: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/8683958-mushrooms-russia-and-history
• Blood Spore: https://harpers.org/archive/2013/07/blood-spore/
• Bicycle Day: https://www.printedmatter.org/catalog/53650/

www.mushroomrevival.com

We are a functional mushroom company and make 100% certified USDA Organic and Vegan mushroom supplements. We are transparent with our lab results, and use actual fruiting bodies aka mushrooms! We provide our supplements in tincture, capsule, powder, and delicious gummy form. 

Energy (Cordyceps): Need a little pick-me-up before a workout or when you’re picking up your kids from school? The Energy Cordyceps is the mushy match for you.

Focus (Lion’s Mane):  Needing a little more focus in your daily life? Lion’s Mane is known to be the mushroom for the brain and may support cognitive function.

Calm (Reishi): Looking for some tranquility and zen in your life? Reishi will bring you into the zen state of mind you’ve been searching for.

Daily 10 (Mushroom Mix): It’s like having 10 bodyguard mushrooms fighting off all those bad guys. This is a good place to start as it contains all of the daily mushies you need. 

Not sure where to begin? Take our mushroom quiz here.

Use code ‘PODTREAT’ for a 30% discount.